"Call me obsessive-compulsive (OC), but I really want to make simple things complicated for good. I want to make small things big and being able to make a great story from simple encounters be it an ignored place or an unknown tomb is my compulsion."

I came up with the idea that no province should be considered as inferior compared to other provinces. Every place has it's own beauty and identity.

There are just things that can be seen and events that can be experienced in a certain place you can not find anywhere else.

As I enter Abra, I took time to visit the park called Abra Welcome Park in Brgy. Tangadan in the town of San Quintin.

Not a Tourist Attraction

I have to tell you that this park does not have the charisma to attract tourists or travelers alike. Like any other parks or plazas in the Philippines, this one looks very usual with a monument and picnic tables. But why I still care to blog about it?

Well it is not about how beautiful a place is. My purpose is not just to talk about the great and famous places but also to highlight the unknown and the less known.

I get more excited when I blog about places that are mostly off-topic in the blogosphere. Actually, not just about places but I also share my thoughts about the things I encounter along the road that do not occupy much topic space in the blogosphere yet.

The empty Abra Welcome Park

It was a park located at the foot of verdant hills and it is far away from settlements or communities. The nearest public structure to the park is a military detachment.

Connecting and Digging the History

There was this feeling in me that I want to learn more about this park. I want to bring out what this park is all about and the meaning of the things I am seeing right now while I trace the history of those. Call me obsessive-compulsive (OC), but I really want to make simple things complicated. I want to make small things big and being able to make a great story from simple encounters be it an ignored place or an unknown tomb is my compulsion.

From my previous post about the Tangadan Tunnelwherein I also investigated and researched more about the history of the structure, I still declared it to be mysterious, well, at least for me being unable to confirm my theories and others' theories. But those theories were still oh-so-good to think about.

At the Abra Welcome Park, I wanted something more - discover more about it and dig the history. Yes, it is just a common park that usual people won't care at all. Having a picnic at the picnic tables or just enjoying the fresh breeze will do for them. But for me, it is not enough. I wanted to exaggerate it based on facts or evidence-based hypothesis. And right from the very start, I know this park is not ordinary if only I will learn the reason behind it's existence.

I saw a monument of a horse with a woman riding on it. The woman must be a fighter, or a heroine. I found out that she was Gabriela Silang, the brave woman who fought for freedom and of course the woman who fought against oppression from foreign invaders. So how I was able to know that she was Gabriela Silang? Well, it really helps to read the markers you see everywhere.

Here I am again. I tend to interpret things (I think I should have taken a degree in sociology, anthropology or psychology, lol). I am wondering why she was riding on a horse here. I believe there is a meaning behind.

The best way to learn about the meaning of this structure is to ask the creator. But I don't know where to find him to ask about it. So again, it remains as a mystery, though as I always say, there is no such thing as mystery because there is a reason for everything. What makes it mysterious is the fact that no one can explain the reason. If I would find the reason, then that is not a mystery anymore (at least on my part).

Deep Personal Roots

Everytime I see a monument, I have some degree of goosebumps. Not that I am afraid of it or it is creepy but because I am so much into interpreting monuments and structures. Every detail of it for me has a reason. It is ok if you call me weird or crazy thinking about this stuff but my interest about interpreting symbols, signs and monuments started with my fascination of conspiracy theories. Ok, we might be going far and explaining it here how it all started would require me to create a new blog dedicated for that. I have to tell you that my interest about these things has a deep personal root.

That is also the reason why everytime I enter a place, I try to look for a museum first and if there is a museum, that would be my priority to visit. It completes me everytime my interest about finding out "connections" in history is satisfied and being able to tie the broken strings and make it stretched continually with great connections.

But you won't expect me to talk more about my encounters about the symbols, signs, structures, sculptures or the like because talking much about it would just make me appear to be insane because it is not well-accepted in the pop culture although it has been a part of pop culture. Now if you are already confused why I am talking about these things, remember what I have said above that it has a deep root why I am interested about decoding symbols and that makes me weird. Haha.

For this monument of Gabriela Silang, there is a horse. Looking back on some of our theories I have discussed from my previous post, the province of Abra used to be the Horse Capital of the Philippines and the horses here are the "fighter-types" with the same breed used by the Mongolians in creating a big empire (this is a theory from one of the Abrenians I have talked with online). Moreover, the horses used to freely roam around Abra those times that you can just get one and domesticate it.

So here, it builds a connection about the previous status of Abra. This monument shows Gabriela Silang using a fighter-type horse used [posssibly] for battle or revolution. What emphasized the use of horse by Gabriela Silang for fighting is the "bolo" she is handling. The horse is in a position-of-great-action that implies it is under a fight or battle. The base where the horse stepped on may represent the rugged terrain of Abra.

So why Gabriela Silang is here in Abra? Well the residents of Abra claim that Gabriela Silang was born in the town of Pidigan in the same province (I will be talking a little about it for some parts of this series as well as posting related photos) although written history appears that this great Pinay hero was born in the town of Santa under the province ofIlocos Sur.

Well, I don't consider myself as a history buff, I am just a digger, or interpreter and learning the history is just one of the important things to interpret and/or understand these things. [Please tell me if I already sound crazy in this article :p]

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There you have it. Actually, I was able to trace the legacies of Gabriela Silang to 3 towns in Abra and I will be discussing about that soon in this series. For the mean time, we were already able to enter the province of Abra and had a great adventure.

Our motorbike went off-the-road. We took an unfamiliar road which is our first time to hit.

We reached the dead end of the road and we were already in a place where there are a lot of pebbles, stones and huge rocks. There are trucks that do quarrying.

But wait there is a river, a great river. In here, we met local residents, and more adventures awaited us here making us leave our motorbike. I never expected those things to happen at all... And again, this place has almost brought me to a place connected to local mythology and legends. I swear, I can't wait to tell our experience. To be continued...

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You are reading the Part 2 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

"I have found a paradise! With this, it is the start of real off-road adventure. Literally, there will be no road, but there will be an adventure."

I checked out the gasoline meter of the motorbike and it was close to draining. Oh no! There is no gasoline station along the road (I mean, near the road we are currently taking) and it would take us to travel for about 20-30 minutes more under an average speed to reach the closest gasoline station. Time check, it was 3:30 PM. My brother said, "let's go home because it is getting late."

But I said, "No, let's proceed, parang hindi ka na nasanay (seems like you are not yet used to it)." And to tell you, everytime I do a motorcycle journey with my younger brother, we usually go home at night because I really intend to maximize the things we can do in the presence of light then we'll just go home at night, immediately after sunset. I believe my brother already knew the technique, but he was hesitant to continue the journey deep to the towns of Abra until dark.

Maybe he is just afraid? I don't know. But I think he was not a coward. Until I convinced him, we set to travel more, farther, deeper, and oh yeah, feels good!

It's the dead end, but this was just the start of a real off-road adventure, literally, we have to be on the waters, not on the road, unplanned and spontaneous.

With a meager gasoline, we tried to find a local resident to ask how far should we take more to reach the San Quintin town hall. Someone said it is about 15-20 minutes more. I calculated it and I have to stick with my instinct that we can still do it.

The thing here is that, the road going to the town hall was not along the main highway. It was off the main road. But still, I know we can make it even though we have no idea where we are going.

Sometimes I have to wonder and ask myself, "What the heck I am doing this? Risking our lives? Meeting strangers? Exploring places in my own expense without great benefits in return, and why?"

But then again my adventurous shadow has to appear and remind me that this is already programmed in my genes and there's no way I can resist the impulse of discovering and exploring. For that, I always agree because I know there's no reason to disagree for that matter.

We were able to reach the San Quintin, Abra Town Hall and we were safe. Thank God! Nothing special with the building but I have to go inside and talk to the tourism officer.

I saw someone wearing a shirt with the Philippine flag marked on it and I approached him. I asked him if I can talk to the tourism officer of the town. He asked me why. I introduced myself that I want to know what are the tourist spots or interesting places to see in San Quintin until he told me that there is no tourism officer in the town.

But the man was so excited and he asked more about me until I have to come to the point of telling that I want to explore San Quintin and I "may" feature it on my travel blog for the people to learn about the interesting places in the town. He excitedly accompanied me inside the town hall and showed me photos of their interesting spots with potential to become a tourist destination. He showed me a framed old photo of the Tangadan Tunnel with a big smile on his face which I have already visited and the legendary Tugot ni Angalo (Footprint of Angalo) who is a mythical giant who once stepped in Abra leaving big footprint in their town.

He let me see another person, I can't remember exactly if he was the municipal _______. I was just disappointed that the second man whom I met inside the town hall was not accommodating. He asked me who am I and what is my purpose and I have to introduce myself as a travel blogger to at least give him an idea why I am here. Because if I will tell him that I just love to travel, it might build a suspiscion as to my purpose. You know Abra, they don't want you to intrude to their "territories." So people under suspiscion of spying or destabilizing "their rule" has no room in their territory (OMG, I am thinking beyond Cloud 9 but this really happens).

I said, sir, I want to visit the potential tourist spots in your town. But he replied as if I am worthless saying, "Why go there? Just see the blog of GMA 7 (a TV Network), it is there. Just see that. That's it!"

I replied that I want to visit the place personally and take my own photos. He again replied saying I will just copy the photos of GMA 7. But I insisted that I want my own photos because his suggestion could mean a violation of copyright laws. The irony is that, he doesn't even know the blog URL where I can see that! I asked him how can I reach the place but he deliberately told me that I should not go there because I can hardly go there and that I have to cross the river and it is still far!

Well, I was just asking how to go there and not on how hard is to go there. I am not asking him to guide or assist me there like what they did to GMA 7 staff because I can DIY things. It was not a helpful conversation. Seems like he does not want to promote his town. Well, let's just leave that to him. As for me, I will blog about the beauty of Abra, and of the beauty of my country! That's it!

View of Abra River from the San Quintin town hall

But the man whom I first talked with silently guided me out and he was encouraging me still to go there giving me directions and instructions. I don't know but when we were in front of that second man, he can not talk (maybe because that man has a high position and can not be questioned) but when we were not with the 2nd man, the 1st man was continually telling me about those places, and I can say he was very proud.

I decided to go out the town hall (courteously) even though I was disappointed. But I have to say the first man I have talked with was very friendly and accommodating and thanks for his instructions although I was almost driven away by the second one.

Riding on a motorbike, we followed the road the 1st man was telling me until we were already descending. Going further, it was already the end of the road!

But what I saw was a very beautiful river! Yes! It was very enlightening. My disappointment was instantly replenished with joy and excitement!

That great river was just there! It flows between great mountains, verdant mountains, giving me an awesome raw view of nature.

But I saw trucks at the banks of that great river quarrying. I don't know how should I react with this because these are natural resources given by God. But I believe everything that is too much can lead to disaster.

Approaching the end of the road. Spot the man crossing the waters.

We were now getting closer to the river but there is nothing permanent in this world like this road we are taking, and it has to come to an end, the dead end.

But we were unstopped. We went near the river and dip to it's waters until unexpected encounters happened.

Our motorbike | A mechanical mixer | Their motorbike (Dead end scene)

We have to park our motorbike because we can no longer use it for there is no more road to take.

I was thinking should we end up this journey here? I believe there's more to discover in this undiscovered place.

But we kept approaching the river and the view that welcomed us was just unbelievable!!!

I don't know how can I describe it. Maybe raw? Romantic? Rare? Uh. At an angle close to the river, the waters stayed so calm and the verdant mountains around seemed like waving cheerfully, enticing us to enjoy the nature! I have found a paradise! With this, it is the start of real off-road adventure. Literally, there will be no road, but there will be an adventure. To be continued...

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You are reading the Part 3 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

"I set my eyes wide open to see and savor the great space, it was freedom! I enjoyed the moment seeing the frontierless space, it was freedom! It was indeed an endless space beyond my reach."

It was a great sweet escape from reality - the reality that I work 8 hours a day (sometimes I have to work 12 hours) and 6 days a week. It is the reality that I am longing for space, freedom and delight badly. It is the reality that I am thirsty of seeing a wide space under a time that runs so slow as if it will never end.

Being stuck within the 4 corners of the hospital with my role of giving unconditional care, patience, love and service to humanity, I almost forgot that there is a wonderful place outside waiting to be discovered by me. It was the day I found love once again -- a love for God that has gone deeper who is the Creator of marvelous wonders on Earth, the love for nature that I tend to miss at times and a love for peace and right freedom. I don't have a problem with my job at least, I loved it. Sometimes the job becomes so rewarding even I have to work under a not so generous compensation but I am not complaining about it because it is already a reality for our profession that we need to work more than what we earn. So there should not be an issue for that, as I said, I love my role, my vocation.

But what made me landed to those realizations is the fact that I am seeing a raw natural wonder that is impossible to see in my daily routines. Upon seeing a gratifying wonder, NO ONE, as in NO ONE should blame me why I have to come up to the point that I have to say I am thirsty for freedom and to feel the other side of adrenaline rush I always wanted to experience.

In my work, everyday is an adrenaline rush and I am deeply loving the daily challenge that makes me a better nurse but it is a very different thing. It is an adrenaline rush that signals my role that I need to act because there is something wrong or someone is in danger and I have to save lives. Well that task is oh-so-nice. Not everyone can do it aside from trained health care providers like me.

The adrenaline rush that brings out excitement and passion is the one that I long for. But then again, I don't want to hurt anyone so please don't jump into conclusion that I am "mareklamo." It is NORMAL for a sound person to crave for something he always wanted to do. Unless if you have an unsound thinking, you will never, as in never understand the things I am saying and you will tend to jump into conclusion that I am complaining. I am proud being a nurse. But outside our work (generally speaking), there is that other side of us that is activated [aside from the things we love doing inside our workplace] be it cooking, jogging, farming, singing, sleeping, surfing the net, etc. On my part, I can't deny the fact that I love going outdoors and I shouldn't be stopped for that like the way most of us prefer.

I don't have a problem with my job and I love it. I am merely expressing the great feeling and insights that consumed my soul upon seeing a natural wonder that I can never see in my daily routine. So I SHOULD NOT BE BLAMED if I am expressing these things. Well I am just human that is susceptible of becoming amazed and I should be respected for that. In the long run I am not against anyone. I am not blaming anyone and I am in the position to complain.

The truth will set you FREE!

In my previous post, if you ever read that, I reached the dead end [of the road]. But it doesn't mean it was the end of everything. It was actually the start of great adventure.

In life, sometimes we have to end something, but ending something can mean it is the start of more thrilling and exciting adventure as what happened here in San Quintin, Abra.

As I get off the motorbike, I already knew that I have to get off the ride to experience the real essence of the adventure. The adventure is not always along the road. You need to get out of your comfort zone and find another comfort zone. Yeah! There are a lot of comfort zones out there to grab but we fail to recognize them.

I was expecting a great scenery here and it didn't fail me. It was more than my expectation. Before I came in this town, I am already aware that the Abra River flows down in this quiet beautiful town. Thanks to Google Map for showing me that. Now my role is to find the road that will lead me there, if there will be no road, I have to walk and if I have to cross a river, I will. I triumphed! I actually did the three: I passed on the road, I walked and I actually crossed the river (story will come next).

I was indeed rejoicing to see the new place I discovered. Ahhhh! This is freedom! This is the adrenaline rush I am looking for! I set my eyes wide open to see and savor the great space, it was freedom! I enjoyed the moment seeing the frontierless space, it was freedom! It was indeed an endless space beyond my reach.

There was no restrictions as to how should I act or move, it was like me and just the nature with God above! It was peace, no pressure, no heavy responsibility or almost none at all.

As I look at the man riding on a rake, I have realized how we make our lives complicated when we can make it simple. But that would be another story. I have to say, this man should consider himself lucky. It seems he has no great demands for luxury and wants. He is not pressured, the way I interpret the image.

While enjoying the view, I saw a lady dressed in white coming near us. I was wondering what is her purpose of going here. I let her come close and ask why because I am curious. I thought she is related to the man fishing in the river atop a rake.

The moment I had the chance to talk with her, I asked her what is she doing here. She told me she is going to cross the river. Huh? I wondered how until she told me that a motorized boat is coming to fetch her.

"Really!" I squealed. I tried to focus my eyes at the other side of the river and there I saw it was real. I saw tiny boatmen riding on a tiny boat. I know they are real. They are just too far from where we are standing that I didn't notice they were just there.

Motorcycle Adventures in San Quintin, Abra

After taking several photos of me near the river as souvenir, my spirit can't just wait to be awakened and push me to cross the river.

I thought I have to pay but the lady told me it was a free ride. I stand amazed. I let her talk and learned that the free boat ride is funded by the provincial government of Abra to help the people.

I later learned why there is a need for the government of Abra to do this. The fact that it is already the end of the road is making sense. The other side of the river are other communities and they are literally isolated because of the great river. There is no bridge to connect these communities to other places where important human activities take place. So the road has to end up here.

Zooming my camera, I was able to at least magnify the tiny boat with tiny people therein. It was coming close already. They know when to come and go. The free ride starts from 8am until 5am but they may extend as the need arise.

Two boatmen are fast approaching. Finally, I will have to cross Abra River for the first time at one of it's widest parts. Will this give me the chance to see the footprint of mythical giant Angalo? That would be the second footprint I should see if ever. They say I can see it at the other side of the river. And right now, I am ready to cross the river and I know it would be fun. It was very spontaneous, unplanned and instant. To be continued...

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You are reading the Part 4 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

"...it could be fun doing the river crossing but that fun wouldn't be real if you don't know the reason of the existence of this free river crossing."

I thought it was already the end of the journey because it was already the end of the road and this great river is actually a predicament for it has served as a peaceful and beautiful obstacle of going to the other side of the town of San Quintin in Abra.

I was just standing and walking along the river savoring the great feeling of freedom it is giving me. A lady came close to us on which I learned later that she'll be crossing the river and I wondered how. It was into my great surprise to learn that a boat is going to fetch her. I didn't immediately notice that a boat was at the other side of the river.

So I wanted to know more why she is going to cross the river until I suddenly learned the answer for myself. It didn't come to my mind immediately that at the other side of the river are other communities and I thought reaching the other side of the river requires you to take another road network.

After several minutes, more people came to cross the river. I asked the lady if I can join them because I remember, the 1st man whom I talked at the town hall a while back told me that I have to cross the river to see the giant footprint of Angalo. It is a big deal for me to see this because it is a part of the Ilocano folklore and stories from the elders that this giant once roamed around this part of Northern Philippines leaving giant footprints to different towns. I have seen one of the giant footprints in Sudipen, La Union and this would be the second after I failed to see another one in Pinsal Falls of Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur

Crossing this span of the great Abra River would be a double purpose which would mean it will be my first step of seeing the giant footprint of Angalo and the other purpose is just to experience it. It would be such a great memory and experience if I will at least cross the river like the locals do.

It was said that several years ago, there was no boat like this to help the residents of San Quintin to cross the river. Instead, they use rakes to cross it.

The photo above shows a man on board a rake. So several years back, this type of floating material is used to cross the river and in transporting goods.

The people clamored for the need of a bridge but for now, there will be no easy funds to finance the construction of a bridge and that would mean hundreds of million-peso project I guess (because a bridge near our city that crosses the same river width costed to be like that). Remember that Abra River is the 6th largest river system in the Philippines and it streams down from Benguet, to Abra then opens it's mouth to Ilocos Sur. So there are a lot of towns situated along the Abra River and San Quintin is just one of them. Each town has a story to tell about Abra River.

For the said situation, it would be very impractical to rush the construction of a bridge here because there are more "main" bridges which should be given priority because of catering the needs of more people. I am talking thousands of productive people with the need to go to work daily to build our economy. Constructing a bridge here worth hundreds of million pesos that will only serve to not more than hundreds of people crossing daily would be very impractical.

Now it is getting clear, even using your common sense alone, why this place has no bridge yet. The solution given by the local government unit of Abra is to employ 2 boatmen to assist people crossing the river from morning until afternoon and that should be for free. It is a matter of public service. Cool idea right? I'm glad I am one of the beneficiaries this time although I am not from Abra. This would mean that anyone is entitled to have a free boat ride.

Before I crossed the river. I captured a video of my self. Oh! I didn't bother to edit it anymore because my video editing tools were just too weird that they didn't work now that I need them the most. Please bear with the video quality because I don't have a highly sophisticated gadget. You're not watching a Hollywood movie anyway, do you? So be it

Crossing the river would last for about 1 minute. Finally, I will be crossing this river for the first time. It was not the touristy river cruise that all you need is to relax.

This one requires you to adjust to the situation. It was not just about for the fun and adventure. It was about trying to act like what the local residents do. It requires becoming open to the reality. It was not about fun. It was a lesson, a new learning lesson.

It opened up my eyes into the reality of what other people have to deal with. They need to cross this river with their goods, their sack of rice, their whole family and has deprived them virtually the right to drive their own vehicle along the road from the site of trade and commerce to the doorstep of their home. If the river is harsh, they need to stay home so the people know when or when not to hoard goods. Typhoon seasons would be a good example.

I thought it would be such a freedom, a great escape from my daily routines in search for freedom and delight but it was more of making me a mature person. As I feel the cool river breeze that masks the presence of scorching heat of the sun, I can feel the pain (the emotion, not the sun burn) and I can not resist it. It is the pain to know why should people experience this kind of situation while other people just enjoy the luxury of life without predicaments such as this.

I was able to capture a short video clip while I cross the Abra River. It should have been more than a minute video but I used some parts of the crossing period to capture photos. So please bear with the short video clip of crossing the river.

Hearing the noisy engine of the boat was poignant. It tells me that the residents need to get used of this situation daily. It was poignant, at least on my part because I am not used of living to this kind of situation and knowing their daily situation brings a message that penetrates deep to my throat.

But I can not see any complain from the face of the people. They were even more warm and welcoming when I had a ride with them. If you try to listen to the video, one of them is even making a joke that Jing-Jing, the name of the lady whom I talked with has suitors and we are going to their house to propose a marriage based from their words. She said in their native dialect called Itneg: "Umali da danunen si Jing-Jinge'n (I hope I said it right)." Danunen, or Dumanon is a tradtition by which a man is going to the house of the woman to show his intention to the parents of marrying their daughter. Well, it was just a joke! Those people are just happy given their daily situation. They have still time for fun :)

Jing-Jing, the lady whom I first met at this river crossing with instant love affair.

I am not against anyone, I am just talking here as an emotional person that appreciates the beauty of life who makes every experience as a form of learning. I salute the province of Abra for thinking a great solution for the transportation problem in this part of San Quintin and may God bless you more and your beautiful province.

I tried to consider myself as a local resident and doing it made me think their daily difficulties. Well, this blog isn't all about the great famous places of comfort but it is also about the travel experiences that money can't buy. It is about learning the way of living, the culture and trying to understand the struggles of the locals enriching my brain with new learnings.

This river crossing was a new learning ground for a person like me who loves exploring places. Yes the word "exploring" and "adventure" could be a "cliche" but there's no other word to replace the very meaning and essence of it.

Now you know why I said it was not really fun? Well it could be fun doing the river crossing but that fun wouldn't be real if you don't know the reason of the existence of this free river crossing. But if you try to dig deeper into it, you will realize it is not really fun. It mirrors the daily struggle of the people with the clamor for development that keeps running away from them. However, the people are resilient that makes them happy people in spite of all of these odds. The Abra LGU has been helpful for this set-up.

After crossing the river comes another mission that the #TownExplorer needs to do. They say it was hard to go to the actual site where the giant Angalo Footprint is located but they also said I can see it at the other side of the river on which I am now.

That mountain is too far, and that would be another story. Where is the footprint? To be continued...

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You are reading the Part 5 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

"This is considered by the people of San Quintin as their greatest tourist attraction that tourists may not even want to see because of remoteness and the lack of knowledge about this Ilocano myth that exists in this Cordillera province of Abra"

In the presence of modern technology where children are now engaged with smartphones, laptops, facebook and partying (on which I'm against if done by the little kids the wrong way - "insert fling, smoke and hard drinks), I reached a quiet village surrounded by mountains called Mt. Ati, Mt. Bullagao and Mt. Mabongtot. The little village is called Palang which can be reached by crossing the Abra River in the town of San Quintin in the province of Abra. From this village, there you can visualize a legend that is still very much alive. A legend that has been a part of the living and culture of the people in this remote little village in spite of the revolution of the modern world.

The remote little village, isolated by the Abra River, landlocked by mountains.

In this part of the country, hidden by the mountains, there exists the most legendary footprint of all the legendary footprints of Angalo. The thing here is that many people are aware of the story of Angalo and Aran (characters of an Ilocano myth) but few are knowledgeable of the existence of this footprint maybe because it is just hidden, inaccessible and very impractical to visit if your purpose is only to see this (unless you are a fanatic of mysteries, legends and local folklore).

But for me, being interested with this type of stuff, I don't mind exerting an effort as long as it won't cost my life. In the long run, walking down a remote, less visited place gives me euphoria. But the question now is, where is that legendary footprint?

I remember the person whom I talked at the San Quintin Town Hall that the Angalo Footprint is the most famous landmark in this town and probably this landmark is bringing the town on map.

The only predicament is the fact that reaching the place would be very difficult. But he said to me that as I cross the river (on which I just did), I will be able to at least visualize the footprint. So imagine how big or gigantic that footprint is!

I have already discussed the story of the legend of Angalo in a previous post wherein I personally encountered one of the footprints in Sudipen, La Union. But as I was telling, this one is the most famous along with the other footprint at the top of Pinsal Falls on which I failed to see. So I have to say that this is the most famous pair. This footprint I am chasing now is the right foot, while the other one in Pinsal Falls is the left one. But as I said, there are many footprints scattered to different towns up north.

So now, I would want to act as an elder as I narrate the story of Angalo and Aran from the Ilocano mythology as has been passed from generation to generations. These two giants are equivalent to Adam and Eve in the Ilocano mythology. The only difference is that they are super-sized;

Once upon a time, there were two giants who inhabited the planet named Angalo and Aran. These two giants are believed to be the first inhabitants of the planet.

But the woman Aran is missing and so the giant male Angalo's longing to see for the woman was infinite. He continually searched for Aran and to be able to look for Aran he roamed the whole Ilocos Region.

Upon his search, he left massive marks, and these are the gigantic footprints carved into the young earth. Angalo also drank from the springs of what is known now as Pinsal Falls in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur and he has to kneel thereby creating other depressions. Those depressions are now natural pools at the top of the waterfalls and the largest of those natural pools with the shape of a footprint is claimed to be the footprint of Angalo.

Now here in San Quintin, the footprint is carved in a village called Labaan, it is still far from the place where I am standing now. But just because the man assured me that I can see the footprint by going to Brgy Palang where I am standing now, I pursued the adventure. So that would be a very gigantic footprint! Angalo must be a very super-sized man!

Right now there is no one who can help me go near the footprint. So I have to stay here and see the footprint for myself from afar but I still long to see it up close. It is claimed by the residents that it is 3 meters deep, five meters wide and 15 meters long! Whoah!

Now, using my camera, I tried to zoom in to the next mountain within the reach of my naked eyes and I noticed a depression in the area. I have encircled it for emphasis just in case you can not notice it.

Ok, I think we have to get more closer. Check out the photo below if a footprint is already evident.

That's the only photo I can give for the mean time. But I hope this will give us an appreciation to an Ilocano mythology which has passed from the mouth of different generations because of the presence of these claimed pieces of evidence that a giant once inhabited the world. Mind you, there are many footprints in different towns and it makes this myth more interesting to probe. What a co-incidence!

For you to better appreciate it, I have borrowed some photos from jojof who has captured that landmark in a closer degree.

I shouldn't have been posting these photos because I still have plans to personally go closer to this landmark and capture my own photos but for the sake of appreciation, I am posting it now.

Ok, this is considered by the people of San Quintin as their greatest tourist attraction that tourists may not even want to see because of remoteness and the lack of knowledge about this Ilocano myth that exists in this Cordillera province of Abra. The search is not over yet, this is just the second footprint and I am still under warm-up! The search for other footprints would be more epic.

As I cross the river back to where I came from, I again observed a very great thing that I bet you will most likely agree too to be good (I hope so). Before I left San Quintin, I have told myself I will blog this encounter and I noticed this one after I saw this footprint from afar. To be continued...

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You are reading the Part 6 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

Check out the other Footprint (Related Post)

Angalo Footprint at Sudipen, La Union

"As I leave this town, I know by myself that I will always cherish all the memories it gave me. I don't know when should I be back but I am sure, San Quintin has been written in my heart."

It was a town with hopes and dreams for it's people teaming with great natural wonders that can set you free. An unhurried town, laid back, quiet and simply beautiful. I am referring to the town of San Quintin in Abra. My posts about the town may have seemed to be endless and forgive me for that. I just can't keep myself writing many stories about the town because of the many experiences and beautiful encounters it has shown me that are worth sharing for.

As I cross the Abra river back to where I came from, what I just saw at the other side of the river is another wonderful scene. On both sides of the river, there are beautiful views to see - actually, 360 degrees is a paradise unknown.

San Quintin, Abra Town Hall as seen from Brgy Palang while crossing the Abra River

There's that hill (or possibly mountain?) at that part of the north where a structure is standing overlooking this great portion of the Abra River Basin.

The structure doesn't look special but it was unusual. The fact that it is located in this magnificent location gave me big smile.

For all the hundred towns I have seen, this town hall is so far located in the most beautiful location before the judging power of my naked eyes. Most town halls are located along the road but this one is located at the end of the road with the Abra River as the backyard at the foot of lovely mountains. Who would not fall in love with that?

I would say this is already the finale of my recent San Quintin town journey and the view invites me to be back soon. This separation anxiety makes me want to stay here longer but this last river crossing facing the beautiful location of this town hall marks the end of my adventures here.

As I leave this town, I know by myself that I will always cherish all the memories it gave me. I don't know when should I be back but I am sure, San Quintin has been written in my heart. If you have followed the series, you know how San Quintin captivated my soul but everything has an end, and needs to end. In every single journey, there is always an end, but the memories you will cherish will make the journey to last forever in your heart.

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You are reading the Part 7 of our Abra Motorcycle Adventure Series

The town maybe new to you but I just want to introduce an itinerary the town explorer way. I would mean that this travel guide would not fit every traveler (because each traveler has a style and preference). The things I am going to introduce are not good for senior citizens unless they can ride a motorcycle with ease. If you are a rider or a thrill-seeker, this itinerary would fit you but I just want to clarify that this is only applicable to the town of San Quintin in Abra and you can still visit other towns in the province after doing this.

For those who want to spend an ample time exploring the town, I hope this would help. I actually encourage everyone to explore our towns in the Philippines wholeheartedly and that would include understanding the history and the pulse of the town. I believe a town can offer us new discoveries only if we try to explore them.

I also recommend using a motorcycle if you do it because it is easier to do the task but it will still depend on you if you want to use a truck, a bicycle your ferrari or simply alay lakad to death :p.

For the mean time, let's focus first to the town. Before we begin, I would want to first show you where San Quintin, Abra is located just in case you haven't read the previous posts of this series where I also placed this map. For the suceeding map, it will be more specific where in San Quintin those points of interest are located.

Take note that you can still make your own itinerary by including other towns so I am reiterating that this is specific to San Quintin only.

Although I will be making a comprehensive Abra province Itinerary after I will be able to blog all the towns I have explored in Abra, I want to be town-specific first then I will come to compile them all for my upcoming province-wide comprehensive travel guide for the province.

San Quintin, Abra Travel Itinerary and Tourist Spots Map

If you have followed my San Quintin Series, you will learn later that this post will just be a compilation of all the places I discovered in San Quintin. Ok let's begin:

[1] Stop Over at Tangadan Tunnel

Tangadan Tunnel is I think the most notable landmark in the province of Abra. This will always be the first on the list for the itinerary if you are reaching Abra via the Maharlika Highway then turning to Ilocos Sur-Abra Road because this serves as the welcome arch (no, not really an arch, it is a tunnel). Take your photo here and appreciate the structure. For more information about the historical value of this tunnel, read more...

[2] Gabriela Silang Monument at Abra Welcome Park

Pay homage to the greatest heroine of Abra. She is Gabriela Silang, born in the town of Santa in Ilocos Sur but claimed by the people of Abra that she was born in the town of Pidigan in their province. Beside the Tangadan Tunnel is the Abra Welcome Park where this monument is standing. Learn more about Gabriela Silang and the history of this monument: Read more...

[3] Reach the Town Hall

Well, there is nothing special about this town hall but it is important that you know where it is because it serves as a guiding landmark. Anyway, when I go to every town, I always make sure to see how their town hall looks like. It mirrors how wealthy a town is (most of the time) and it will give you an idea. The town hall is about 30-40 minutes from the Tangadan Tunnel. Just ask some people along the way where the town hall is located. The town hall requires you to turn left from the main highway so ask some people. Don't worry, they don't bite! Immersing with the local residents is part of the adventure. Read my experience inside the town hall here...

[4] Go Visit the Abra River

Visiting the Abra River is a must since it offers you a raw beauty. Take note that there are many towns where this river flows and San Quintin is just one of them. This site is located at the back of the town hall. Take a left turn from the road near the town hall (refer to the map above).

Possible activities you can do at this part of the Abra River are picknicking, fishing, swimming and why not do kayaking if you have the equipments, right? Oh no, not surfing, even though you have equipments, no surfing please if you don't want to surf your life, LOL!

[5] Cross the Abra River

If you won't try crossing the Abra River, your San Quintin experience won't be complete. This river crossing is free you know. It is funded by the provincial government of Abra to assist the residents in crossing the river - because there is no bridge to connect the communities. Wondering where to see the boatman? Just focus your eyes to the other side of the river and make a big wave. Be sure the boatmen are looking. They will come to fetch you.

So live like a local resident. But mind you, this is not a cruise ship that all you need is comfort. You need to adjust for the situation and act like a local resident. You can also act like a visitor if you want, that's not a problem but be sure you know how to adjust while on board the boat because it is not all about the comfort, but I would say it is an enjoyable experience. Read my river crossing experience here...

[6] Angalo Footprint Challenge

After the river crossing, try to look and identify the footprint of Angalo. Angalo is a mythical giant that forms one of the most popular legends in Abra. From this side of the river where the boatmen have lead you, you can actually see the footprint because it is gigantic.

I was not able to see it up close because you need to take a longer boat ride to reach the actual place. Learn more about this footprint here...

[7] The Cabaruyan Falls Challenge

I was not able to see the Cabaruyan Falls, also called the Hidden Falls in Brgy. Labaan but I will leave this to you as a challenge to explore it, the challenge to find your direction here and the challenge to share a travel guide here. To give you an idea how this natural wonder looks like, I have found a video here.

That's it! I hope you'll enjoy your town exploration in San Quintin soon! Please inform me if you have seen the waterfalls. As of now, I am still planning to go there for me to update this post.

How to Go to San Quintin, Abra

From Manila: Take Partas Bus or Viron Busline, they have daily trips from Manila to Abra. These bus companies pass through San Quintin. Travel time is about 8-9 hours.

From Vigan: Go to Vigan Bus and Jeepney Terminal. Take a Vigan-Bangued bus. Most buses that take that route are non-AC and are most of the time old-type mini-bus. Travel time is approximately 1 hour.

Narvacan Junction: If mistakenly took a north-bound bus that goes directly to Laoag or Vigan, drop at Narvacan Junction. Abra-bound buses all enter in this junction.

Travel Notes

The river crossing is available only from 8am to 4-5 pm. Once you crossed the river, be sure to be back before 4-5 pm if you have nowhere to sleep or else you're stranded and wait for tomorrow's schedule.

Staying here overnight is not recommended unless you have relatives or friends you trust where you can stay the whole night. Day tour is recommended. Accommodations near San Quintin are located in Narvacan (Ilocos Sur) and Bangued, Abra.

"I am thinking, when should I do it? When I become old? No, I should do it now that I still have the chance and the strength."

That day marked another milestone in my life. It was a hobby turned into a necessity, a basic need. I think about it daily. It always occupies a part of my daily life thinking for my next journey. I keep looking at my map everyday and I keep researching for tourist attractions in town. I am obligating myself that it is my role to encourage everyone to appreciate our towns and not just to focus more on the popular tourist attractions.

And yes, this was the day that I took a greater leap of faith. I decided to start a solo motorcycle journey. It was a test of courage and faith. I found out that I can make it!

Some are against with this and I understand their rationale. But I can't resist it. I am thinking, when should I do it? When I become old? No, I should do it now that I still have the chance and the strength.

It took me about 170 kilometers. It looks risky but that is all in mind. I learned new tricks, and the more I do it, the more I mastered the art of driving solo with a motorbike along the highway. It felt good.

I think this is just a teaser for a greater adventure waiting for me. I know I am now quite ready to do a longer motorbike backpacking around Luzon, but yes, that solo motorcycle journey gave me confidence to go. Suba Sand Dunes is just one of the stops. I went beyond that, I went far. It felt good.

I know I am not yet fully equipped, but this first solo motorcycle journey of 170 kilometers is a signal that I can make it and I will pursue the "dream" in due time.

"Yes, some unexplained encounters happen but my conviction is that one should not be afraid if you have the Words of God in your heart."

They are there. They are really there. They exist and that is Biblical. But you should not be afraid if God is with you because they won't harm you. So you love traveling or immersing yourself to adventure while being watched by ghosts or supernatural beings? Hey! Look at your back, no one is there but someone is actually watching you. You just can't see them. For this post, I will be featuring some popular and not-so popular travel and adventure destinations tainted with ghosts stories from urband legends, stories from town folks and even actual encounters of mine. Yes, I experienced "them."

My Ghost Experience at Pindangan Ruins of La Union

For the first stop, this is an actual encounter of mine. It was a hot afternoon (but it is about to go dark) when I reached a creepy place called Pindangan Ruins in the city of San Fernando, La Union. I was riding on a tricycle and I was alone. I entered a narrow road that connects to the main highway. A huge acacia tree was very notable that time. The air moves, mmm... it was cold that made me doubt if it was really a hot afternoon.

All I know that time is that I was enjoying that city tour. There were no ghost things inside my head because it was a bright sunny day and those things never came to my mind at all. At first I didn't enter the ruin and I was just enjoying the dilapidated structure since it is again a new destination for me with historical value. I finally decided to enter the ruin and I suddenly felt uneasy. I didn't know why.

Inside the ruin seemed like it was a different dimension. It feels like it is not a part of the place where I was standing. The feeling was strange. It was hard to explain. I set my camera into self-timer mode and I removed the flash since I don't want the outcome of the photo if there is too much light. For my first shoot, the camera flashed. I rechecked the camera if I really removed the flash. It was set on a flash mode. For the second time, I removed the flash but after the 10-second timer, it produced light again.

That time I was not thinking about any ghosts because it really didn't come in my mind and I was thinking that I may have mistakenly set the camera. But for the third time, I removed the flash and I made myself sure that I really removed the flash but the camera still produced a light.

After I took my own photo inside that "new dimension," the tricycle driver who drove me there told me that people around the area are seeing a priest inside that ruin without a head (pugot) and a lady dressed in white with a face that is hard to recognize. My body hairs got stiff and I told the driver, "Kuya please paki-bilisan, umalis na tayo rito." I didn't tell the driver about my experience there but the moment he told me about those ghost stories, I knew by myself that the glitches of my camera were not of human error.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse of Ilocos Norte

The next creepy destination is the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse of the town of Burgos in Ilocos Norte. It is an old lighthouse that has turned to be a national treasure and heritage. It is situated atop the hill. There are no other houses near the lighthouse. As you approach it, it looks very vintage.

Reaching the lighthouse was not easy. If you have no rides, you need to climb the hill. After that climb, the lighthouse seemed like to be reluctant to visitors because there are more steps to take before reaching the lighthouse itself.

I went up, some metals from the windows and other parts are rusty. It was very silent. But it gives you a marvelous view of the West Philippine sea and the mountains of Ilocos Norte and a different feeling that you are in a different world @.@.

There a lot of old stuff and you don't know if the persons who made those are already dead now that their ghosts are taking care of them. Some locals tell that a white lady is residing in that lighthouse.

The Antique Sta. Maria Colonial Cemetery Ruins

For some reasons, I visited a Spanish-era cemetery in the town of Santa Maria with two awesome bloggers Estan Cabigas (Langyaw.com) and Eric Cabalda (HReric.com).

Maybe you would ask me. Why you bother to visit a cemetery? Well, that is an interesting question. I wanted to visit the place because of it's historical value. It is as old as the World Heritage Church of Sta. Maria which is also made up of bricks and few is known about it. Going there would at least give me an idea about how beautiful the cemetery chapel in that cemetery was. It has intricate designs with evident European influence. You can see the designs in some of the remaining structures.

The cemetery ruins are now filled with a lot of trees, vines, shrubs and other plants. Inside is like a mini-forest that will transport you to another realm within the walls of that antique cemetery chapel.

Burgos Ancestral House and Museum

It is one of the famous museums in Vigan being the birth house of Padre Jose Burgos of the famed GOMBURZA. The house is now a National Museum.

The ghost story started when a visitor of the Provincial Capitol visited the museum. The government officials toured that man. Unknown to those officials, their visitor has a third eye. Let's just give him a pseudo name "Mark." As other tourists are enjoying the old stuff they see inside, Mark felt uneasy. Being a person with a third eye, he was seeing "many" other tourists inside the museum that it was only he who can see them. They are dressed in an old-fashioned way in barong and old gowns just going around. They ascend and descend the stairs and they are everywhere the house. The story has spread in Vigan and employees of the provincial capitol may have known about the incident.

Mystery and Ritual-Filled Burayok-Pinsal Falls of Nagbukel Mountain Town

Actually, I will have another set of posts that will tackle my experiences in this mystical waterfall but I want to include it now for this post. However, this will only serve as a teaser. The whole story will be written in a series since it covers a huge realm of different stories that require thorough analyses for each event and encounters.

What made this waterfall mysterious and creepy is the fact that of all the waterfalls cascading in the mountains of the town of Nagbukel, this one "kills" visitors if you will not submit to the "requirement" of the unseen spirits.

The most common requirement is to offer a blood on which our group just did (I will talk more about that blood-offering ritual for my upcoming series for this waterfall). Our guide told me that people who come here without blood-offering to the unseen spirits will die. Several deaths have happened here and the residents and town folks have learned that those are the visitors who did not offer a blood. From that time on, every first time visitor who goes there is already advised to offer a blood.

The waterfall itself is an image of a white lady. Notice the photo. At the rocks are different symbols like lions and a huge image of soldier who seems to be taking care of the waterfalls (I will show the images soon).

Final Words

Note that these are just ghost stories and it depends upon your conviction. Personally, I believe in ghosts, I believe in hell and I believe that this world will be ruled by the evil and by the Anti-Christ. But the rule will be temporary because Jesus will come the second time around to save the believers (as stated in the Bible).

About the rituals I discussed above, I personally don't believe it but my guide still did it because it was their belief. But I am not bothered should there have been no blood-offering rituals that happened.

So we should not be afraid. Yes, some unexplained encounters happen but my conviction is that one should not be afraid if you have the Words of God in your heart. That will be your protection. Ghosts won't harm, they will just give fear. Real humans both give harm and fear.

No... not many call it a yellow town except unless you already heard someone telling you who is not from the Land of kuripot (but hot, yummy and smart) people na itago natin sa pangalangIlocos (I belong, just so you know :p)! But before you believe that the yellow town is Tagudin, can you please check you teeth first? LOL! It is not actually the real title of the town. Actually it a first class municipality in Ilocos Sur with a lot of major major titles that can steal the crown of Venus Raj. It is indeed a title holder town but I just want to coin a new title and I will call the town as "Yellow Town" :p Some acceptable titles are The Gateway to Ilocos, Malunggay Capital of the Philippines, and the Pearl of the Amburayan River.

Ok, I will show you some reasons why the town of Tagudin is the yellow town. But before anything else, Tagudin is not a cold town (yelo). LOL!

The Yellow Town

Yellow Tricycles. One of the lame reasons why I call the town as a yellow town is the tricycles. All public tricycles are painted with yellow. It doesn't matter if it is dark yellow, light yellow or a new wave golden brown yellow (uh?), what is important is that you can recognize them as yellow. blahh >.<

The yellow tricycle above is the same yelow tricycle that toured me around the town. They virtually make the road (especially in poblacion) as the official dumpsite of fresh peelings of yellow bananas (those that aren't banned in China).

Yellow Market: There you are! -- the yellow market that sells yellow roses (not the real one, the plastic type made in China), yellow bikinis and yellow flip flops that will make you look like a walking mango shake (kidding, uh, pleasebearwith the things I am saying because mango trees can bear yellow mango fruits when ripe :p).

Yellow People: Yes! They are yellow people because they are wearing yellow clothes that glare me. I have no photos because I saw them inside the municipl hall. Oh my! Taking a photo inside requires that you must be wearing a yellow underwear #fiction :p

Yellow Mangoes: I know yellow mangoes are almost everywhere, so what? I want to include it here to make this post super yellow! LOL!

Yellow Leaves: Uh? What about that? Well Tagudin is in the making as the "Malunggay Capital of the Philippines." Seriously. But I want to leave a trivia. Malunggay leaves become yellow when their life is nearing it's end. Do you know that?

Yellow Juice: Aside from malunggay, Tagudin has also adopted calamansi as their OTOP (One Town One Product). The town produces calamansi juice and other products from calamansi. Oh uh. Please take note that the juice needs to be yellow, please erase black gulaman in your mind because calamansi juice that is black in color requires food coloring. Oh well, the town produces healthy food for everyone :)

Ok, I hope I did not convince you that the town is the yellow town of Ilocos because once I convinced you, I am convinced too. LOL!

Interesting Trivia about Tagudin

The first 7-11 store in Ilocos provinces. While the Ilocos Sisters (Sur and Norte) have sprawling touristy cities like Vigan, Laoag, Candon and Batac, Tagudin is the first town in Ilocos to have a 7-11 store, whew!

The first sundial in the Philippines. Because I do not know how to use a sundial, I also don't know what is this for honestly. But based on the context of the word sundial, this has something to do with the sun. This is the oldest surviving sundial in the whole Philippine archipelago from Aparri to Jolo (more about this sundial for my upcoming posts in this series).

First town. It is the first town in Ilocandia when you are coming from Manila either by bus or by a bicycle when you are taking the Manila North Road, lol. It is also the last town in Ilocandia when you are coming from the north either by a calesa or simply alay-lakad walking up to sawa... Indeed the first and the last.

So are you excited for the upcoming discoveries I discovered in Tagudin? Well this is just the prelude and we will spend 1 whole month or more (like 10 years, lol) to blog some details of the town of Tagudin that only me can observe the weird way, lols!

See you for the next post #TownExplorers!

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You are reading the Prelude of the Tagudin town series of the #Town Explorer

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

"Tagudin Sundial, being the oldest sundial in the Philippines is the only sundial used by the Spaniards during their era in the country."

During those years wherein the use of wrist watch is not common or could it be common but hindi lang uso, people have devised ways to know the time. In England, they use the stonehenge to tell time. In the town of Tagudin, they use the sundial. Nope, you don't need to dial something because the sun will dial it for you, lols :p

The First Sundial in the Philippines

They may look ordinary. Ordinary person without the thirst for knowledge, history and interesting trivia may just say, "So what about that? A monument with numbers?"

But for history freaks and people inclined with history, this ordinary monument is a treasure to behold, a precious gem to consider and a golden part of our heritage to be taken care of.

History

Tagudin is indeed a historical town. The town had an important role during World War II. Well, I am not saying that I am pro-war. Wars have been a part of the history of mankind and there's no way we can turn back time to revert it. The town of Tagudin is part of those wars that most of us wouldn't agree to happen, right?

It was the site of the Base Hospital of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL) in 1945 during World War II which is believed to be the largest World War II hospital in the Philippines. The town used to be the capital of the defunct Amburayan province and the site of the military general headquarters of the Philippine Commonwealth Army 1st and 12th Infantry Division and the USAFIP-NL 121st Infantry Regiments. They were stationed in the town and was active during World War II (1942 to 1945) and Post-War Era (1945 to 1946). I will be talking more about the history of the town for the upcoming post for this series. For now, we will focus more on the sundial.

Tagudin Sundial, being the oldest sundial in the Philippines is the only sundial used by the Spaniards during their era in the Philippines. Built in 1841 and 1848 respectively, the Tagudin sundials are still in use now and considered to be accurate in telling the time. The sundials ware built by Father Juan Sorolla.

Location

There are two sundials in Tagudin. One is located at the town Plaza in front of the Tagudin Town Hall and one is located inside the St. Agustine School.

The one at the plaza is readily available for everyone. The one inside the school requires you to ask permission first. When I visited the latter, I asked permission from the security guard.

The photo above is a scene inside the St. Agustine School which takes charge of the other sundial.

Underrated and Why?

For regular tourists in Ilocos Sur, of course, they will be particualr about the city of Vigan and the ample destinations and food they can experience there, the UNESCO World Heritage Church of Sta. Maria, The Bantay Bell Tower and others. But if you ask about the Sundial, I bet few are familiar about it.

For this case, who is to blame why this historical niche in the Philippines in not well known? Are we going to blame the DOT for not promoting it? Or the Local Government Unit for not promoting it too? Or simply blame ourselves for not exerting an effort to research some historical accounts of the places we are visiting?

More about Tagudin for the upcoming posts in this series. Please keep posted!

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You are reading the Part 1 of the Tagudin town series of the #Town Explorer

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

"The church has been restored several times since but the original appearance is maintained."

I can sense that time that almost everyone was looking at me. I was a bit shy but I don't want to make this opportunity to pass. I know, I am looking like a stranger that moment and I can't help my self but to smile and look amazed while seeing the Tagudin Church, an architectural masterpiece in this town located at the southern part of the province of Ilocos Sur.

Tagudin Church

I keep on taking photos, I know my behavior was unusual. No one was doing it this time. I mean, the taking-photos-obsession thing. Obviously no one in that place that moment was taking photos and I am quite sure most of the people inside the church premises are residents of the town.

I tried to act as if I am living in the town but I just can't hide how I was amazed seeing a new destination. The facial expression of being a newbie to see the place was hard to conceal and I just can't resist to ask and talk with the people about several questions and curious lingerings in me.

Most of the people sitting near this church were parents and guardians waiting for their little kiddos to finish their school lessons for the day.

The name of their school is St. Augustine School while the name of the Tagudin Church is St. Augustine Parish Church. Within the premises of the school is the other Tagudin Sundial, the oldest sundial in the Philippines on which the school is taking care of.

The church is not located in a place so that it can be very visible to everyone. Although the church compound is located along the road, the church does not stand out in the town because it is hidden by some trees and you still need to enter the gate for you to fully see the structure.

I wanted to take my own photo with the church as the background but I became shy when almost all eyes have been focused to me. As I said, taking photos of the church seems like not common there.

Tagudin Belfry

The belfry is located several meters away from the church. Tagudin Belfry has it's own gate and fence. It has 3 layers and the bells are placed at the 2 higher layers.

The belfry is octagonal in shape, also hidden by huge acacia trees.

Those acacia tress were huge that the belfry is almost covered from my previous location at the church yard, just in front of the church. The trees soar as high as the 3-layer belfry.

So I need to walk close to the belfry to see it wholly. The belfry is guarded with another fence and gate. I was thinking that I have to ask a permission but the gate was open and no one was around.

Much better! The belfry looks better up close. It has been painted but the paint was not enough to hide how old the belfry is. One can still see the oldness of the belfry once you see it up close.

Hmmmm. Lovely bells are there! Of course, I want to take my own photo with the belfry as the background as souvenir photo until I saw a lady inside a building in front of the belfry smiling while looking at me. She was alone and I can see she was about to laugh.

I was doing a pose with the camera on a self-timer mode and I suddenly became conscious. I was feeling that time that taking photos there is unusual or strange really. So I am landing into a conclusion that people who take photos there is uncommon.

Well, to note, the town is not a popular tourist attraction. Taking photos while being amazed could be unusual as compared to popular places where taking photos is a must and people won't care about you even you will pose 100 times.

Tagudin Church History

The history of the construction of the church is based on a document (an official report) of the 24 cabeza de barangay of the town of Tagudin and the governor of the Ilocos Sur province in 1829. The report states that the church was built by a priest named Father Gutierez while he was still a priest of another town in La Union called Bangar. The wall was finished in two years time.

The construction of the church was continued by another priest named Father Franciso Hernandez in 1816. The said priest died in 1821 and that time, Tagudin Church was almost finished.

Other cited document states that the church's vault, interior and presbytery were not yet completed as of 1829. The church was made of stones and brick and measures 40 brazas long and 8.5 brazas wide which are equivalent to 66.80 meters and 14.19 meters respectively.

The construction of the church was completed by Father Juan Sorolla, the prior of Tagudin in 1832. He is the same priest who installed the Tagudin Sundial, the only sundial used by the Spanish people in the Philippines when they colonized the country. It is also the first and the oldest surviving sundial in the Philippines.

The church belfry, however, was built later on. Another priest named Fr. Geronimo Rubio built the slender belfry in 1881. Father Mariano Ortiz made some restorations in the church in 1880. The church has been restored several times since but the original appearance is maintained.

Architecture

The façade of the church pervades a clear Baroque style. It has huge main door which is arched elliptically. It has Augustinian symbolisms crowned by a triangular pediment of Baroque influence.

If you are a conspiracy theorist, I am sure you will tend to be particular with the symbolisms. But I would prefer not to discuss it here because not every reader has the same way of thinking like the way conspiracy theorists do.

Tagudin Church is the southernmost structure with Baroque Architecture in the Ilocos provinces. Large and sensuously rounded, paired columns with double capitals flanked at the sides of the main entrance.

Some accounts state that some of the designs are Greek in origin as embodied to some of the decorations placed at the façade. The impediment has broken lines, very common features of the Baroque.

Historical Timeline

1814 (?): This date is not certain. But according to the report of the 24 cabeza de barangay of Tagudin and the Ilocos Sur governor in 1829, the phrase "he was prior of Tagudin" was referring to Fr. Gutierez, the one who started the construction of the church. The document further states that the walls of the church was completed in 2 years time until it was continued by another priest in 1816. So, 1816 minus 2 years is 1814. I don't know what happened to Gutierez that the construction of the church was handed to another priest.

1816: The church construction was continued by Fr. Franciso Fernandez.

1821: Franciso Fernandez died, the church is almost finished.

1832: Father Juan Sorolla completed the construction of the church. He also built the convent now used as a school bulding of St. Augustine's School and the 2 Tagudin Sundials (1841, 1845).

1880: Fr. Mariano Ortiz made some restorations in the church.

1881: Fr. Geronimo Rubio built the slender belfry located west of the church.

Location of Tagudin on Map

Disclaimer

This post does not promote, protect, or support any religion. This post aims to educate the readers about our history, appreciate our heritage and to promote tourism. Religious belief/preference has no bearing in this article.

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You are reading the Part 2 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

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Subject: FAROLA LIGHTOUSE, still in Tagudin town. Learn how Ilocos is linked to Belgium!

"Appreciation of our great history and heritage does not need to be embodied to grand structures because the greatest parts of the past were built from small details."

Yes, it is really my first time to see a lighthouse, in person. I have never seen one even in my dreams. Good thing there is TV and internet. At least, they made me realize that lighthouses are not really the upscale type of houses -- and not really a house, nor the bright luxurious part of an exclusive mountainside subdivision.

First Time to See a Lighthouse

I wanted to maximize my time in the town of Tagudin. So what I did was to go to the municipal hall and meet the tourism officer. Honestly, the tourism officer was accommodating and nice.

What I just wanted was information about places to see in Tagudin until it leveled up! Whew! I was asked to meet the Mayor!!!

Hmmm... I was already in queue, but since I only have limited time and the wait has been too long, I decided not just to meet the mayor. Outside the office, I saw a picture of a lighthouse and that was the start of the Amazing race (solo version).

Below the municipal hall is a line of yellow tricycles waiting for passengers. I was able to grab one.

And finally! For the very first time in my life, for the 24 years of my existence, through thick and thin, through all the struggles, typhoons and floods, elementary, high school, college, post graduate school and all that (LOL!), I will be seeing a lighthouse!

History (A Connection to Belgium)

Farola Lighthouse shares a slice of the history of the town. The existence of this lighthouse traces it's roots from Belgium in Europe.

The story started when a group of missionaries from Belgium landed on the shore of Brgy. San Roque (present-day Brgy. Farola) by boat.

The group was headed by Sister Marie Louise de Meester and they set foot to San Roque on June 21, 1910. The lighthouse has been standing about 100 years now!

As a symbol of their landing in the Philippines, they built a PAROL (Lighthouse). Later on, the small Parol became famous to all fishermen and this has served as their guide when they go back and forth to the sea.

This group is called the CICM Missionaries -- the group who is responsible in the foundation of the famous institution in Baguio City, St. Louis University, the St. Louis College in San Fernando City, La Union and the At. Augustine School of Tagudin.

Climbing the Lighthouse

FAROLA LIGHTHOUSE OF TAGUDIN, ILOCOS SUR

I did not let the opportunity to pass without climbing the lighthouse. When I arrived there, it was not a grand lighthouse like what I am seeing on TV and Internet. But why be fooled by a grand lighthouse if the history and story is not as sweet and juicy as the history of this small lighthouse?

Appreciation of our great history and heritage does not need to be embodied to grand structures because the greatest parts of the past were built from small details. I asked my guide if I am allowed to climb the lighthouse. The tricycle driver (my guide) had no idea. So what I did is to ask the residents near the lighthouse if I can do it. One lady said it's OK.

The lighthouse is located within the residential community and there was no stunning seascape background to see unless you go near the beach... or climb it instead.

The old lighthouse is already rusty. As I step my foot to the first steel in the ladder, there was hesitation. I wasn't sure why I still care to do it. Huh, what am I doing? The steel feels like it can be detached anytime. Actually, some have been in fair condition. But I still continued to climb it.

Before I reached the top, I again, was reluctant if I will continue it because of the possibility of electrocution. I am really eccentric this time that I was so compelled to climb it. Thank God I was safe!

At the top of the lighthouse are solar panels and an amazing view of the sea. I won't recommend you to climb this. But if you want, let it be. But be cautious. A white paint concealed the old rusty steel ladder. It is medyo delikado.

Well, it was fun! What made this place worth the visit is the fact that I again learned a new lesson in history. It was not about the place itself but it was about the great event in our history that happened in that soil where I personally set my feet on. (end)

Map of Tagudin (via Wikipedia)

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You are reading the Part 3 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

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I Visited an off-beaten destination in the town called Ambalayat Hanging Bridge. This is a great place for adventure-seekers in Tagudin.

"I have to say you need to experience first before concluding and I found out that people at the remote barrios are warm, accommodating and kind."

Seeing a hanging bridge over a great river, well, over a creek will do too, has always been a fascination whenever I travel. I said it is a fascination because I rarely see a hanging bridge since I am a [component] old city dweller wherein what I see everyday are >100-year-old houses and multi-century-old structures, parks and palace. Looking at individuals crossing different types of hanging bridges sparks a different kind of feeling in me. At last, there is something "new" in my sight, not really the old thing I am already used of seeing daily.

Overview

Hmmm, I am very much confident to say that the town of Tagudin should be a must-experience destination when it comes to HisTourism (History + Tourism) because unknown to many, major events in our history which are actually 'firsts' happened here. I will talk more about this for the next posts.

Aside from historical sites in the town, just in case you are already tired of bombarding your brain with thoughts that will compel you to invent a time machine just to be able to understand history and/or going back to school to stare for 1 hour for that boring history teacher, then I can suggest a place for you that is not related to Persian Gulf Wars, rocket science and Ming dynasty.

Location of Tagudin on Map

The people call this as Ambalayat Hanging Bridge, some also call it Ambalayat Foot Bridge. But it is more popularly called as a hanging bridge maybe because motorcycles can also cross the river using this bridge and not merely by foot. (#edmareasoning)

It is located in Brgy Ambalayat, hence the name, the last frontier of Tagudin town at the east. Ambalayat hanging bridge connects this remote barangay to the rest of [mainland] Tagudin. The barrio is being detached from the main landmass of Tagudin because of the Amburayan River that separates it. So don't think this is an island the moment I said that it is detached from the mainland.

It is actually located at the parts of Tagudin wherein mountains start to appear closer and going further at the east would be another mountain town already.

The Little (or more) pain of Going

I am sharing this to show you how to go there and to encourage you to think twice. Yes, seriously, in case you are a senior citizen with osteoarthritis or a good-looking man yet asthmatic exacerbated by off-road travel if ever you are unlucky enough to have that condition.

As I said, just "in case" you want some off-road adventures and careless travel memories, I am suggesting this. But of course, I won't tell you that it is as stunning as the Golden Gate Bridge so I am carefully writing this post so as not to overrate the place.

However, I believe if you have that spirit of a traveler, adventurer, or explorer of just any town, you will love this especially if you want to discover this town deep in your heart.

Before reaching Brgy Ambalayat where this bridge is located, you have to take a mixture of cracked, muddy, and rough road. But I believe it depends upon the season. If it is dry season this is the version: Before reaching Brgy Ambalayat where this bridge is located, you have to take a mixture of cracked, dusty, and rough road. Did you notice the difference?

Reaching Ambalayat

It was an another mission accomplished. This bridge is actually on my list since a brochure of Tagudin tourism has included this as one of the points of interests in the town.

As I arrive at the place where the bridge was located, it was a mix emotion, on my part. It was an instant relief. I tell you the place is so peaceful and relaxing. There was no noise, but there are sounds, lovely sounds of the birds, and the moving air creating friction to tree branches filled with leaves. I saw the river upon reaching the place. It was calm, there was no rush. But during typhoon, practically, I believe it becomes harsh.

Crossing Ambalayat Hanging Bridge

I can say reaching the place is safe. The people won't harm as per experience which is contrary to the belief of many that it is not safe here for strangers.

I don't really know why most people consider remote barrios as dangerous destinations. I really hate this kind of stereotyping. I have to say you need to experience first before concluding and I found out that people at the remote barrios are warm, accommodating and kind.

Tambay Kids along the bridge

I am loving this experience. It was truly fulfilling that at least, I am able to immerse myself in Tagudin and even to get familiar to the town.

As per experience, solo travel is already enough to get immersed and to discover the town by heart.

The people I met

The moment I set foot to this remote barrio, the people already knew that I am a stranger here. Just before I crossed the bridge, I saw a group of men playing card games.

I can hear them talk about me, like "Who is that?" and they look at me with facial expressions that it is their first time to see or meet me. I did interact with them and the people were warm.

One of them was telling that he is thankful that someone like me is visiting their barrio.

A Woman Crossing the Bridge

I went to the other side of the barrio after crossing the 200-meter hanging bridge spanning the Amburayan River. It was about to rain but I still continued the journey. I walked down this new barrio, meeting new faces, seeing new places.

It was great! The unsafe rumor was just really a rumor. I went down near the river and savored the peace and "safety" of this new destination. As droplets of rain fall to my skin gently, I feel like the rain was part of the warm welcome. The experience was very memorable.

Leaving the remote barrio

It was that simple bridge that made way for me to discover the beauty of the barrio and I would not dare say that it is an ordinary bridge.

Without that bridge, I may not be able to meet kind people, to encounter a peaceful community and to experience this very beautiful barrio.

Ambalayat hanging bridge as seen from the other side

Souvenir Photo

No regrets. Going here was not easy, at least, if you are still coming from other towns or other provinces. But I don't care whether or not this place is considered a tourist attraction. Well, I am not about that concept. The mere fact that the experience was memorable is already more then enough :)

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You are reading the Part 4 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

"I think it is safe enough to tell that I am not overrating the bridge because as I see people passing through the bridge, they too, stand amazed."

It was a motorbike stroll to Caoayan, a very small town south of the city of Vigan. My target is to see the Caoayan Bridge. I don't have any idea how it looks like but just because the RHU Physician of the said town suggested that I have to see it and photograph it, I waited for the sun to go down to finally see what the RHU doctor was telling me.

A Grand Entrance!

Caoayan Bridge was undoubtedly stunning.

The road I have to take while driving the scooter was not as bright as the scene I saw in the town. So upon making a left turn going to Caoayan poblacion, the boring night turned magical!

I can't resist my self to ride off the scooter and to just park it along the bridge and decide to just walk and enjoy the magic of the dark night!

The lights of the bridge made the dark night so bright.

It was indeed a grand entrance to the town. The ordinary bridge becomes extraordinary at night. Even some motorists and vehicle owners driving to Caoayan can't help but be amazed and to get off their rides and cars to take photos.

Quick Walking Tour

The inviting bridge has made me decide to just walk.

I think it is safe enough to tell that I am not overrating the bridge because as I see people passing through the bridge, they too, stand amazed. They get off their rides and take a photo while staying for a while to feel the magic it brings.

Caoayan Town Hall (Sorry for the wrong photo label)

I have crossed the bridge and the scooter-stroll-turned-walking-tour lead me to the Caoayan Municipal Hall. The town poblacion was really quiet. Some barbecue stalls around are still open. I was glad to see that a big investment has come to town when I saw a super-mart chain standing at the middle of the small town.

The municipal hall has been finished too! It's been a while since the last time I visited this town. The once small, old and not-so-good-looking municipal hall has transformed to a beautiful building!

Light reflections in my scooter's side mirror

It's nice to be back here. I discovered it has something new to offer aside from the popular barbecue stalls that are attracting foodies from the town and nearby towns.

The quick night walking tour in town was a quick reminder that I don't need to ride an airplane just to see great places because some of the great places are just actually near you.

"So it was possible to experience a pebble beach and a black sandy beach in one place. This is my observation in Farola Beach."

The place was not a big surprise, although it is one of the most memorable places I have been because it is where I saw a lighthouse for the very first time. What is interesting in this beach is that the shoreline is divided into two types of beach.

Farola Beach in Tagudin

It has two types of beach in one place. The shore nearer to the sea is lined with pebbles, thus a pebble beach, while about 100 meters away from the sea is a black sandy beach.

Well, it is just an observation and it was the way I saw it.

Pebble Beach

Black Sandy Part of Farola Beach

So it was possible to experience a pebble beach and a black sandy beach in one place. This is my observation in Farola Beach.

This beach is mainly known in the town because of the historical Farola Lighthouse and it's historical importance as landing site of missionaries from Belgium who came Christianize the country.

Raft at the Beach

Fishermen of Brgy. Farola

Although the beach is not as popular as any other beaches, it's importance in the community is as big as other beaches for the reason that many people in this coastal barangay earn a living from this beach.

So there's no way to underestimate any beach I am seeing. A beach does not need to be as powdery white as Boracay to consider it important. In the long run all beaches were made by God in different forms as a blessing to the people.

Map of Tagudin

I am not against if businessmen will establish their resorts here. But if I were to be asked, I would rather keep the beach as it is and leave the fishermen undisturbed if business establishments will be the reason of the modification of the natural beauty of the beach for personal profits.

How to get here?

Just get a tricycle near the municipal hall and just tell the driver to drive you to Farola Beach. Fare is around 30-40 pesos if you are alone. Please negotiate for the fare first. The fare is cheaper individually if you are in group since you have to divide the total fare among yourselves. Enjoy! Don't forget to see the lighthouse too and the Kandaruma Park at the beach.

"How I wish that after 50 years, this festival will still continue and evolve to be one of the grandest in the country, and after 50 years, this blog entry will still remain."

A very small town west of the city of Vigan in the province of Ilocos Sur, it is very interesting to know that in spite of the small size of the town, it has managed to evolve as an important portion of the economy of the province. Dubbed as the vegetable bowl of the north, the little town of only 9.68 sq. km. in area is blessed with limited fertile farmlands. For the town, size doesn't matter.

Larga Festival | An Overview

Larga Festival | Sta. Catalina,Ilocos Sur

Sun-Kissed Farmer's Hat

The little town of Sta. Catalina is an agricultural town. But unlike many other agricultural towns, it does not mainly host rice fields. Interestingly, the agricultural lands of Sta. Catalina are planted with cabbages, onions, cauliflowers, and others. The crops I mentioned are just the major produces of the town.

This is the first ever Larga Festival in town with the goal to promote the industries and local products of the municipality especially their vegetable products. However, there are also rice fields and corn fields. So just imagine how diverse the crops grown in this little town.

Fiesta Crowd

This is so far, the first Larga Festival in the town and I am blessed to have witnessed this celebration dedicated to the vegetable farmers in town.

Yes, the farmers deserve a break and recognition since they serve as the foundation of almost every rural town's economy.

Fiesta scenes in town

Crowd in front of the town hall

Local Products in one stop

Town Plaza crowd

Purple Cabbage, a must-try in Sta. Catalina

It is very uplifting to know that you don't need to be big to dominate. For Sta. Catalina, they own the vegetable trade and market in the province. Their farm products are also sold to other provinces and even to Manila.

It is my first time to see the town so lively and happy. The people were there, anticipating that great things are happening in their small town. I can witness their excitement and fascination.

One must-try product in Sta. Catalina is the purple cabbage. It is not main stream and yet, the town has been producing it for several years. They say you can eat this raw like lettuce. Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to try it.

Street Dancing

Fiesta Banners

Preparing for the street dancing

And yeah! There was a street dancing. It was the highlight of the celebration. The dancers were little kids from the 7 elementary schools in the municipality.

It was not as grand as the other popular festivals in the Philippines but for a simple quiet town like Sta. Catalina, this must be something worth watching and cherishing for.

I don't know why this event feels like so special to me. I don't live here although some of good friends of mine are from here. Maybe because I have a deep respect to farmers because the way they raise their families as farmers are just greater than anyone else on my point of view.

Now the kids, on which I am sure some of them are children of farmers are dancing on the streets promoting their products with good pride and greatness. That's the essence of this festival! Yes, I might have discovered why it feels so special to me.

It was a pure celebration. The farmers' kids themselves danced gracefully with pride in their gestures. Unlike any other festivals that become so commercialized leading to real competitions (although I am not against with the concept), Larga Festival was more of a passion. The children for sure can't help but to perceive that the town's farmers (their parents, and including them) are real heroes. Without their parents, this festival is meaningless. Indeed, the festival was full of meaning. This is their day!

Caroza in motion

Little vegetable vendors, a simulation

With emphasis on the green necklace made from Sili

Shy little girl

Baskets of vegetables

Kids on street party!

A necklace made from fresh sili

And the real celebration began as the street dancers put on their feet to the streets with colorful costumes and props.

There was only 1 background music used and it played so loud so that the whole poblacion and the people watching along the main street can hear. Imagine how loud should that be and I was just near to one of the speakers.

They wear Abel Iloko, a locally woven fabric.

Larga Festival | Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Head carry

Yellow

In motion

Eyes closed

Being in sync

Being at the back

Contingent#5

Graceful!

So Colorful!

Big smile!

Big moves

Partners

Cute little boys in green

Cute little boys in red

Waisted

Bending to the left

Trio

Click the Map to explore more of Sta. Catalina.

How I wish that after 50 years, this festival will still continue and evolve to be one of the grandest in the country, and after 50 years, this blog entry will still remain.

For that, I will be more than glad to say that I was a part of history and will still be and tell the younger generation (if I am still alive that time) that "Hey look at my blog! I was able to document the first ever Larga Festival in your town!"

Please pardon the low-quality photos, but I hope you were able to get the message I wanted to bring out that even the most expensive camera can not deliver.

"So you want to explore the town of Tagudin and you don't have any idea what this town has to offer? Let me help you based on my experience."

Tagudin is actually an interesting town that can give you history lessons and interesting trivia. It is the first town in Ilocos when you are coming from Manila via land travel or if in case you want to make alay lakad to death, why not? It is still the first town from the south :p

So now, I have found interesting tourist spots you need to see, or if you are not a tourist, or if you don't want to be called that way, there are "interesting places" you might want to see. Of course, I will give you some important details and reminders and it will be up to you if you want to see the place. So here we go!

Bio View Deck

Let's start with the Bio View deck. Uh, please don't get confused if it is Bio deck or view deck because it is actually Bio view deck, makes sense?

The view deck is located in Brgy. Bio which is the southernmost barangay in Tagudin, also the first barangay you have to take in Ilocandia when you are traveling by land from the south. The viewing deck is located at the top of a hill.

What to do here:

Enjoy the view: So what to do here? Just stand the whole day! Lols. Kidding aside, it is a view deck and it will allow you to view the boundary of La Union and Ilocos Sur provinces, the beautiful Amburayan River and the Amburayan Bridge. If you love viewing a view (equation: view x view = view2, lols), then the Bio View deck is the place for you.

Picnicking: There is also picnic area at the view deck. Enjoy the fresh air and the countryside ambiance of two provinces in one vantage point which is the Bio view deck made for viewing a view in your own point of view :p

*Censored* There is another one, and usually couples do it at night according to my source, but I won't tell it because this is not a night life guide, this is a tourist spots guide :p Any idea? lols. Anyway forget about that, this post did not undergo proofreading :p

How to go here: Just after you cross the Amburayan Bridge which comes before the Ilocos Sur welcome arch if you are from the south, look at your right side, you will see this view deck. Just take the stair then climb. Coming from the north, look at your left, it is located before the bridge.

Amburayan River and Amburayan Bridge

A walk away from the Bio view deck is the Amburayan River. It originates from Benguet then terminates in Tagudin. The bridge spanning across the river is called the Amburayan Bridge which connects the two provinces of La Union and Ilocos Sur.

What to do here:

River fishing: Do what the locals do. If you are well-versed with river fishing, it could be a cool leisure activity without doing a break dance.

Picnicking: You can also have a picnic at the riverbank. You can fish at the river for your meal. If you don't know how to fish probably because you are suffering from a carpal tunnel syndrome then just bring your own food. There are no picnic tables, it's a cow thing, I mean be a cowboy, or a cowgirl (I don't know if they allow cowgays here).

Swimming: If you are into swimming, then why not! Locals also go here to swim, simply to release heat and be refreshed.

Photo walk: If you are not into photo swimming, blah... you can still do a photo walk here. The place is photographer friendly.

*Semi-censored* Swim nude! Urgh... Swim like you are in a nude beach, but be sure your body from the waist down should be submerged into the water :p Oh no! Please don't follow this advice, this suggestions isn't approved by the BIR.

Warning: The water gets harsh at times, so be sure there is no typhoon or unlimited monsoon rains via chem-trail if you plan to go here. Also, there are no facilities or resorts near here to hire a bikini or fishing material and cooking materials so bring your own. I told you this is a cow thing. Better, bring an already cooked food if you're not cow-ish.

How to go here: The Amburayan Bridge, which is the first bridge you will be taking before entering Ilocos, should be the landmark you have to take note if you are coming from the south. It comes before the Ilocos Sur welcome arch! Just go below the bridge by following the trails.

Tagudin Sundials

Tagudin Sundials are Spanish-era structures. The two sundials of Tagudin are the oldest sundials in the Philippines and the only sundial used during the Spanish regime.

What to do here:

Tell the time using the sundial: The sundials are still working, so don't miss the chance to know what time is it by interpreting the shadows at the sundial. That would be your challenge.

Don't touch the structure: Don't you ever dare touch the structure. This is a part of our heritage and it needs to be preserved. Touching will lead to vandalism. So, prevention is better than cure. If no one will touch it, there would be no vandalism. So be a responsible individual, traveler or tourist.

How to go here: There are two sundials in town, the one is located in front of the municipal hall and the other is inside the St. Augustine's School just beside the Tagudin Church. Don't forget to ask for directions from the locals, this is mainly DIY. More tips and learn more about this sundial by clicking here and not there.

Tagudin Church and Belfry

Tagudin Church is a must-see in Tagudin. It has a Baroque architecture and was completed by Fr. Juan Sorolla in 1832. It also has a belfry situated east of the church which was built with distance from the church as caution for earthquakes. Learn more about this church by clicking here:

How to go here: The church is located at the heart of the town so it is very visible and accessible once you know how to go to Tagudin which I have discussed below, going to this church will be as easy as ABC. Or you could just ask the locals anytime about the direction. It is very D-I-Y.

Farola Lighthouse

Farola Lighthouse is one historical landmark in Tagudin. It builds an Ilocos-Belgium connection (click here to learn more) and it is about 100 years old.

For the things to do and the history, click here.

How to go here: From the Tagudin town hall, get a tricycle and ask the driver to drive you to the Farola Lighthouse in Brgy Farola. Fare costs about 30-50 pesos. Traveling in group would be much cheaper via the benefit of sharing for the fare. If you have your own vehicle, Farola is located midway the Poblacion and Bitalag. You can ask for the locals for the direction along your way.

Farola Beach

So you want a silent beach in Tagudin? There are several beaches but it is only the Farola beach that I was able to see. It is located near the Farola lighthouse. This beach is the landing site of Belgian missionaries.

The beach has pebble and dark sand shorelines. Learn more here:

How to go here: Same with Farola Lighthouse, please refer above.

Ambalayat Hanging Bridge

Go for adventure and off-road travel in Tagudin, then Ambalayat hanging Bridge is the place for you. It is actually a footbridge but they are used of calling it as a hanging bridge. It is located in Brgy Ambalayat, the last barangay in the town at the east separated by the Amburayan River, thus, the foot bridge.

How to go, what to do here? Check it out here.

How to go to Tagudin?

Click the map to see all posts about Tagudin.

From Vigan Bus Terminal, get a south bound bus (Vigan-San Fernando, Vigan-Carmen). The fare is 100 pesos as of July 2012. You can also ride on a Vigan-Tagudin PUV located north of the Ilocos Sur Capitol in Vigan.

From San Fernando City, La Union, get a north bound bus or PUV. Drop at the Yellow Market, that would be your starting point in exploring the town. Yellow market is located along the national highway in Tagudin.

Maximize your time in Daraga, Albay. The bustling town is more than just the Cagsawa Ruins. I have made this simple travel guide to give all types of travelers an idea what to do in the town of Daraga.

So whether you are a solo backpacker, glamorized backpacker, traveling in group, budget-packer, spend-all-you-can-packer, BFF-packers, family packers or simply just a mother packer, you can absolutely do this given that there is no typhoon, volcanic eruption and flood happening the day of your visit.

So you want a town-specific tour for Daraga in Albay and you have this style for slow travel covering 1 town at a time? Here are suggested things to do in town without the need to wear a red bikini. It is very D-I-Y and it won't cause you an overnight stay to a lodging house or a 5-star hotel. Get ready to rumble #TownExplorers!

Start Your Day at Cagsawa Ruins

Daraga, Albay Tourist Spots and Things to Do

Yes, you gotta start your Town Tour Itinerary at the Cagsawa Ruins. If you would ask the locals, they would tell you to go here at morning. The reason? To see the Mayon Volcano without thick clouds covering it.

Ok, that is the theory of these #TownFolks and I bet there are no political and scientific conspiracies over those theories. The volcano's showgirl side peaks at the morning. Ready for the show?

Explore the Ruins

Don't just get satisfied of photographing Bicol's most famous man-made landmark seen in HEKASI Books back then in Elementary and High School. Go and explore the ruins! Examine the ruins. Go around the ruins. If you were able to do that, you'll be smart enough to recognize how volcanic stones look like.

This is your chance to touch and feel the famous Cagsawa Ruins and you'll come to realize that there are some more things to know not discussed by your school teacher only if you will observe keenly and examine the ruins with curiosity.

See what's inside the ruined belfry

Tourist spots and things to do in Daraga, Albay

Another suggestion is to go inside the belfry if you are lucky enough. I said if you are lucky enough because I wasn't lucky enough to go inside. However I was able to take a snap shot. There are wooden fences. The reason I can see to this is to ensure the safety of the tourists. There could still be debris you know.

But of course, have you ever wondered what to see inside the belfry? 'Cause you know, we always see the exterior in books but not what inside the belfry right? This is your chance to prove that there is no dragon inside the belfry.

I was really curious, and now, I was able to see that inside the belfry are volcanic stones stuck together. It is massive you know. The holes inside (that used to be the windows of the belfry) were great source of light inside. But during the night, they become non-useful, of course.

Shop for souvenir (optional)

This option is highly recommended for shoppaholics but not for shoplifters.

Inside the Cagsawa Ruins premises are plenty of local products to choose from. But one inviting commodity that I don't suggest shoppers to buy is the Wild Orchid from Mayon. I am afraid these orchids will run out due to high demand.

Just buy other orchids but not this beautiful wild orchids growing at the slopes of Mayon Volcano.

Travel Back in time at Balay Suanoy

Check out the Balay Suanoy Ancestral Home. It is a restaurant-museum. It is a very elegant house that contains a lot of vintage stuff. It feels like you are not in Albay because of the Intramuros-ish and Vigan-ish ambiance.

Located across the street is the Gazebo, it is recommended for group travelers who want to experience dining in this high-end restaurant.

Food Trip: Recommended Foods to Eat at Balay Suanoy

Yes I know, you are in Bicol and you have to try the Bicol express food. But I just want to make a detour to the Pacific Ocean because the Crispy Pata and Apple + Banana crepes in Balay Suanoy are must-try foods.

I am confident enough to say that it won't disappoint :)

Visit the Daraga Church

Daraga Church is a National Historical Treasure painted with white which actually contains chemicals to preserve the deteriorating facade.

You need to climb the hill where this church is located. If you don't have an idea how this church looks like before it was painted with white, check out the belfry and you'll know how old it looks.

Get inside the Daraga Church

Don't get satisfied just seeing the facade, get inside and check out what to see.

Inside the church was empty when I went here. The facade looks older than what is seen inside based on how I see it.

Dine (again) with the Mayon View

End you Daraga town tour with another food trip at JZOR Restaurant. North of the Daraga Church is a simple, non-touristy yet must-try restaurant because of the experience it brings you dining on an azotea-like setting while viewing the Mayon volcano.

It gives you an outdoor-dining experience because of the vastness of the plains you see below that gradually meet together at the top in unison that is the peak of the almost-perfect cone Mayon Volcano.

I hope this one helps. Go! Explore the town of Daraga!

Do you want to explore more the town of Daraga? Hint: Click the map. Happy #TownExploring!

"The scope of Licuan-Baay is extensive and expansive. You need to get a guide beforehand who is familiar enough of the town. Reaching the barangays and communities of the Tingguian (Itneg) people is tricky"

I got this opportunity to visit another town in Abra called Licuan-Baay. I would say it is a remote town with communities hiding within those seemingly endless range of brown mountains covered with grasses like the Chocolate Hills type. The town is literally a town-of-gold because it has gold deposits and those golden wealth are being extracted by the residents of the town through small-scale mining activities.

Brown Mountain Ranges

When I first heard about the town, I was thinking it was made up of two towns fused together but they are actually one since. Interestingly, the town is actually divided into two (2) unofficial districts called Licuan and Baay. The other side of those towering mountains is Baay and the other one is Licuan. I was able to explore more of the Baay side.

Reaching and Exploring (the town): Citing the Difference

Exploring the town is not as easy as eating ripe mangoes. If you are a solo traveler wanting to do it solo is a suicidal attempt so please spare this place if you are brokenhearted. Yes, I have done several solo travels that require trekking and hiking and I would say those were just easy compared to how I reached the inner communities of the town.

Going to Licuan-Baay didn't require me to trek and hike (at most) and you think it was easy? Nope. I was even given a chance to ride on a decent car courtesy of some kind people of Abra but that doesn't mean I didn't have to experience exhaustion.

Ok, let's say it this way. You can actually reach the town via the Kalinga-Abra road easy because the said road is paved and improvement is under way. But you will just stick to what you can see at the highway which are mountain ranges and nothing but mountains. I tell you, the beauty of the town is hidden behind, in between and beneath those mountains talking about protected caves and subterranean rivers.

'Reaching' Licuan-Baay via Kalinga-Abra Road

So to make the visit to this town worth it, I really want to use the cliche word explore and 'reaching' the town is different from 'exploring' the town.

If you are a first timer, you can not simply rely to your maps and GPS even if you have your own car if you want to try the word explore solo.

You need a guide, I tell you, you need a guide. You can not get a guide in town at instant. The scope of Licuan-Baay is extensive and expansive. You need to get a guide beforehand who is familiar enough of the town. Reaching the barangays and communities of the Tingguian (Itneg) people is tricky.

'Exploring' the town is a whole different story

So now you know the big gap of difference of reaching and exploring the town and you will learn more if you will keep an eye to my Licuan-Baay series.

The people are specific about their location if they are from Baay or Licuan. But as I was saying, Licuan-Baay is a single town with two major unofficial subdivisions. The seat of the municipal government is located at the Licuan side while the schools and the house of the town mayor is located at the Baay side.

The town and the people

Tingguian Elders in Baay

Licuan-Baay is a town of around 4000 people which belong to the Tingguian tribe (or Itneg bloodline). Like other towns in Abra, the people of Licuan-Baay speak their own Itneg dialect while Ilocano is spoken when they go to the capital town of Bangued.

I got the chance to meet the people of the Baay side and met some of the amazing Tingguian elders in Brgy. Bulbulala. They don't wear traditional tribal clothes and they are just like us. But one thing that makes them unique and identifiable to others is their Itneg dialect.

The Itneg people who are educated can speak Ilocano, English and Filipino too. I am just talking about the dialect here. I know there are more with regards to their culture, practices and customs but to understand that, it requires that I have to live with them in a considerable length of time. Of course, I don't want to talk as if I am very familiar of their tribe.

They are great people! Very warm, very kind, very hospitable and welcoming!

Baay National High School

The town has 11 huge barangays and I was able to visit 3 of them called Nalbuan, Bulbulala and Tumalip and a sitio called Tubong.

The three barangays are just wonderful. I was welcomed with great food, great sceneries and of course warm people.

Teens in Nalbuan killing time at this foot bridge

Old House in Bulbulala

Exotic Food in Sitio Tubong (Tab-Tabba)

Fresh Highland Buko in Tumalip

Rice fields in Bulbulala

I have a lot of experiences to share. I was welcomed by the peaceful scenes in Nalbuan, encountered an exotic food in Sitio Tubong, I got to see old houses in Bulbulala and taste a fresh highland buko in Tumalip.

I know this will take me long so I have to cut my Licuan-Baay adventures into series.

Town of Gold

Mt. Cap-Cappo, the mountain of Gold

One of the most notable landmarks in Licuan-Baay, Abra is probably this mountain that seems to have no life. I mean, it does not have vegetation, it is barren and looks dangerous.

But I would erase my previous statement that it has no life because it actually gives life. It gives livelihood, or source of income to the people by giving them the golden opportunity, that is, to extract the gold therein via small-scale mining.

Another golden mountain

The photo above is another golden mountain that used to be the favorite place for gold-diggers like a large-scale mining firm.

The town mayor said that this mountain used to be 'bald' and has craters due to the large-scale mining activities but now has recovered when the firm stopped extracting golds there.

To date, only small-scale mining activities are allowed there and the people of Licuan-Baay mainly benefit from it.

So now? I am not yet done! I have a lot of discoveries and stories to share in this mountain town.

Special Thanks

Ma'am Chari Bersamin (in blue) with the elders of Baay

I think I really have to say this and I need to thank some people because without them, my Licuan-Baay town exploration will remain as a dream.

Of course, foremost, I would want to thank Ma'am Chari Bersamin of Bangued, Abra for making this trip possible for me. This isn't a paid post by the way and I am not obliged to create this "Thank You Section" but just because of their kindness and selfless help to satisfy my wanderlust, I am obliging myself to say this.

So thank you Ma'am Chari for the hospitality and your kindness. Thank you for opening the gates of your province to me.

Map of Abra showing the location of Licuan-Baay

Licuan-Baay Brown Mountains, one of the many things to expect

How I was able to reach and explore this mountain town is a long story. This is just an introduction and I have more overflowing stories to share.

So what to expect and see in the town? There are plenty of them not yet mentioned in this intro post. Expect butt-numbing off-road adventures and liquid wonders. To be continued...

Licuan-Baay Series: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3