Bagnet Festival of Narvacan, the Bagnet town of Ilocos Sur

December 24, 2012, 8:24 pm

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Talking about Bagnet, that deep-fried pork thingie that is a consistent suspect to the swine depopulation scheme (blah blah), one may just think about the Bagnet found in the four corners of the world... I mean the world heritage city of Vigan. But hey, there is a bagnet town 40 minutes away from Vigan called Narvacan that [really] produces great Bagnet. 

So what now? The Bagnet craze has invaded the streets through that Bagnet Festival street dancing which was celebrated last December 15, 2012. So now, I won't talk too much. I'm gonna shut my big full-mouth off because I will overdo this post with a lot of [trashy] photos. Sorry for the hideous color and resolution of the photos.

That's it. Let the photos speak for the fun I experienced. This is the Bagnet Festival 2012 and this has been your #TownExplorer, signing off. Please share if you want to share, uh!

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

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Top 12 in 2012 | A Year-End Post About 12 Beginnings

December 31, 2012, 8:21 am

≫ Next: Witnessing 2013's First Sunset (and full moon?) in Perspective

≪ Previous: Bagnet Festival of Narvacan, the Bagnet town of Ilocos Sur

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I am not really into making year-end posts because a post of this kind is not evergreen. It is time-dependent. By time, the value goes down. Time can consume it fast. But I realized it is just once a year right?  

And for the fact that I have a lot of [wonderful] things to mention, I was compelled to make mine too. And it is my first time to make a year-ender post. I have several blogs but never have I made one.

For this post, I want to highlight not the place but the experiences that push me to blog. I said that because I love talking. I love talking about my experiences, my insights, my opinion and everything my emotion feels. That's me, It's not the place per se. I am particular about my feelings. I talk a lot about my feelings and experiences I encounter on my travels.

It's the end of the year but this post is all about firsts and beginnings. Like the Mayan calendar, it ends, but after the ending is the birth of new era. So I will be highlighting the 12 beginnings for the end of 2012. This 2012 wrap-up post will be about my first time experiences (in my whole life) that happened in 2012.

First Time to Try a River Cruise

I know this is not something great or uncommon but for a low-profile traveler like me exploring low-profile towns, it means a lot because it is my first time and it marks.

That is the Vigan Heritage River Cruise. Cruising the Mestizo River allowed me to meet low-profile people and I can relate with their lives a lot. I want to help them not because "I have something" but because I know how it feels to have nothing. 

First Time to Meet a Travel Writer

With Edgar (eazytraveler.com) photo by Journeying Pinay

It was EAZY Traveler, Edgar Alan Zeta Yap whom I met. He is a travel blogger too but I want to tag him as a travel writer. I find it more appropriate to call him that way. His blog is a free travel magazine accessed by a single movement of your index finger. I would mean that his posts are all magazine-worthy.

Yes, first time to see a travel writer whose works are seen on travel magazines. During our first meet-up, we traveled on a motorbike that sustained flat tires until we were almost stranded at the middle of nowhere. I had no idea what to do that time until a trike driver came and oh, sigh, I was relieved that finally someone from nowhere came to save us. That's the reason why it's so memorable. Anyway the photo posted above was during our second meet-up.

First time to meet a female travel blogger

2012 is the year when I first met a female travel blogger. She is Heiz of Journeying Pinay. Yuff, she is the authentic Pinay islander who loves journeying everywhere. She travels at night alone, she goes everywhere and also travels to "give."

That is Journeying Pinay, the very first female travel blogger I met. That first meet-up was memorable because oh well, I was just surprised that she hugged me that instant. Well, it's not a big deal but just because we never met before and she doesn't really know me personally, the friendly hug seemed like we were already long-time friends that's why I was surprised.

Then I told her about that and finally, I understood. Yeah, that is, she really is the Journeying Pinay -- warm, sweet, sweet, cool, sweet, friendly and sweet. During our second meet-up, we walked and talked along that street she tagged as "romantic" until midnight.

P.S. She is also the first ever blogger to make a biography about me :p I feel so special :) That's why I am eating sugar eveytime I read her posts. She loves dealing with people especially the tribal people. She GIVEs to these people too and even got a tattoo.

First Time to Dine (in group) with Bloggers

If Edgar was the first travel writer whom I met (right) and Heiz is the first female travel blogger I also met, who would expect that these 3 souls will meet altogether! That moment was my very first time to dine with travel bloggers -- that time when our souls clashed in one accord.

First Time to Travel Solo with a Motorbike Outside my Province

They say it is a suicide when I traveled solo for a total of 200 kilometers using a motorbike. Yes, they are true but I just can't resist the impulse that compels me. But let's don't establish a standard because everything can be dangerous if we are not cautious. That's why experience is the best teacher. With this experience, I survived the impending danger.

The experience taught me that I can do it. There is danger everywhere, it should not be directed to motorbike riders only. Even if you are sleeping at the comfort of your own house, there is always an accident. Therefore, motorbike riding is safe if you are cautious. It is also the same with "Driving a helicopter is safe if you are cautious" or "Driving a calesa is safe if you are cautious." I hope you are getting what I want to bring out. I mean, why think "accident" if we talk about motorbike riding? There are more motorbike owners than car owners so it is natural that there are more motorbike accidents. I hope you got what I mean.

Anyway, this is my first ever solo motorbike travel outside my province.

First Time to See (and Climb) a Lighthouse

2012 is not really the end of the world and of my world because there are a lot of beginnings that happened this year in my life and one of them is my very first experience to see a lighthouse. Uh, even in my dreams, I have never seen one and 2012 was just a great year for me that it allowed me to finally see a lighthouse. Opportunity-grab, I also climbed the dangerous steel vertical stair, rusty and never mind.

That is the Farola Lighthouse. It is actually historical and it was created by Belgian people who landed on Farola Beach in Tagudin town some 100 years ago.

First Time to Meet a Self-confessed Blog Reader

I met a self-confessed blog reader in person for the first time and the place was at the town of Licuan-Baay in Abra. She is from the United States, A balikbayan and currently living in her hometown in Lagangilang.

I specified a "self-confessed reader" because I don't know if I have already met unknowingly a blog reader of mine before. So in this case, Ma'am Cynthia (her name) introduced herself to me that she reads my blog and oh, it was like a town-shattering happiness. I never expected that! She even requested a picture-taking with me and ohhh, fluttered! She said, "Post me!" Now I am posting! Ma'am Cynthia, if ever you are reading this, and I know you are and you will, I would want to thank you! Happy New Year! Regards to your ministry anf family!

First time to cross (and sail on) a river while inside a car

Prior to my first floating car sailing experience

How I wish I could also experience to topload on a jeep while the jeep is being transported by a motorized balsa but I was just very lucky that I received a VIP treatment from my host in Abra on which I was given a chance to reach the farthest town in Abra at the south.

It was my first time to cross the river while I was inside a car. It is Abra's improvised Ro-Ro system. If the Ro-Ro system connects the islands of the Philippines by sailing to the seas, this balsa crossing in Abra connects the towns of Abra by sailing through the great rivers of the province.

First time to travel with a DSLR

Never in my life have I tried traveling with a DSLR and the wish to travel with a DSLR came true in 2012. Nope, the camera I have always wished to own was not mine. It was owned by a person who wanted me to capture the beauty of her homeland. I don't know who she was and I am not sure if she too, knows me.

But never mind about that because she entrusted me her beautiful camera and take note, I don't know her really. She just let me use her's. Of course, we became friends during and after I used her camera. I also traveled with her. I just don't want to mention their names to protect their privacy. And it was my first time to learn how to set the camera into manual and automatic modes, uh. That was exciting! I am so left behind about those gadgets. I have captured hundreds of photos in her province. Thanks! You know who you are. And to your sister, you know who you are. Sorry, I just want not to mention names for now because of personal reasons, but I might make another thank you section in my blog when the right time comes. You are a blessing to me guys! I am hoping to meet you again soon!

First Time to Ride on a Habal-Habal

It was not the hardcore habal-habal that can carry hyperbolically a one whole village, but the fact that I am about to ride a habal-habal, big or not, hardcore or softcore, is another first time record to be considered.

First Time to See Rice Terraces

My first rice terraces encounter happened in 2012. The place is called Kawayan Rice Terraces. Unheard much right? It is because I am more excited to see the less seen than the more popular ones. I am hoping I will be able to see the more popular rice terraces in Batad and Sagada next year. But for now, I am more than contented seeing the less popular ones.

First Time to Get Published on a Book

I am not a professional photographer, but my photos occupied 4 pages in a coffee table book published by the Philippine Carabao Center. I believe, chance comes by chance, so you don't need to exert much effort for something because if it is for you, then it is for you.

Bonus: Other Memorable Pinoy Travel Bloggers Meet-Ups

Well, it is my first time to meet a Mindanao-based blogger and he is Dennis Dolojan, the popular Love Mindanao! We had a quick tour in town via motorbike. 

I have been talking a lot here about my first time experiences but this time, I met Mai Flores of Budget Biyahera and it was the other way around. It was her first time to meet a fellow travel blogger and I was the first one whom she met.

Mai and Rubel were two cool, kind and generous peepz. Imagine, they treated me until my stomach was too full! I even received a box of red ribbon from them! Thanks Mai and Rubel for making my 2012 meaningful! The photo was grabbed from Mai's blog by the way :)

For the second time around, Roj Braga of Adventuroj also met a fellow Pinoy Travel Blogger for the first time and that was me, hehe!

This traveler is also a nurse! Whew! We both are. It is weird but I left them in the house to sleep there because I have to go to my hospital duty. I know, Roj understands how a nurse deal with the time of work because she's a nurse too! When I went home after the duty, they were gone and I was too late, lols. Anyway, the short bonding we had can last a lifetime in my memories! Nice meeting you Rojae!

And to wrap-up things, I also met Mica of Senyorita.net. It was my first time to meet a blogger who can speak Ilocano, because I am an Ilocano. Guess what, we chatted at the middle of Calle Crisologo from night until dawn! Whew! We had a heart to heart talk, hehe.

P.S. (Updated) I forgot to include the first blog I followed before I became a travel blogger myself.! That blog is the langyaw.com by Estan Cabigas! Yey! My experience of traveling with him for the first time is posted in detail here. Sorry I can not post a photo of us together because we were both naked that time, Hahahaha! (I'm not allowed to post that, LOLS!). I also met a blogger for the first time who comes from another niche (HR). He is Eric Cabalda! Just read the link I provided and see where we go @_@.

To sum up, I am looking forward to many more first times next year! Watch out #townfolks!

This is Edmaration #TownExplorer's official entry for the December 2012 Pinoy Travel Bloggers Blog Carnival hosted by Gay of Pinay Travel Junkie and Regine of Between Coordinates.

To see the previous compilations, click the logo at left.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Witnessing 2013's First Sunset (and full moon?) in Perspective

January 5, 2013, 8:03 am

≫ Next: Unscripted Off-Road Back-Riding to the Chocolate Mountains

≪ Previous: Top 12 in 2012 | A Year-End Post About 12 Beginnings

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"...that beauty may fade but the memories will stay."

It feels like it was just yesterday and we are entering another planetary age again. That phenomenon adds more pressure to me signaling that my time on earth is going shorter each time and there are a lot of things I want to do and to accomplish yet. But time is inevitable, it runs fast if you will let it be. 

I think I also captured the moon? Look closely.

I spent the first day of the year 2013 with my family and relatives. Of course, being with my family (my mom and dad, and my two younger brothers) is the highlight of this new age. 

It is our [maternal extended] family tradition to go to the beach every January 1 and Black Saturday. And since I was a child, I have always been going to this beach every New Year's Day and Black Saturday. I have a lot of memories printed in photos taken from filmed cameras from more than a decade ago up to the digital age now.

I didn't want to miss the chance of seeing the first sunset of this year, as I have always been doing and my extended family every year. It only happens once a year. 

Riding on a motorbike, I made sure to bring myself to the coast of my hometown Vigan. The city that is hard to leave and let go.

Driving a Motorbike to Mindoro Beach

It's just so sad that the beach now compared when I was a kid is very different because of "black sand mining" that slowly but surely grabbing the coastline of my hometown. It somewhat hurts, because I love this place. I was born here, and currently working here (as of this post).

When I was a kid, I have to walk very far more from our beach tent before reaching the waters and before the waves, there used to be a natural mini-seawater lake on which we used to call as a 'swimming pool for kids."

My mom and my dad at the sea

The beautiful beach I used to see before is already gone. It is now just worthy of memory to cherish and that's what this beautiful sunset is showing to me -- that beauty may fade but the memories will stay. 

But then again, as the sun disappears, it means that there will be new tomorrow. Can you notice the moon? That means the night and the day are really united in one accord.

Like in life, there's nothing permanent, so do anything you can do now because you may not be able to do it tomorrow. And one of them is seeing the first sunset of the year on which I can never do it anymore should I have missed it. It is once in a life time. For 2013, I am looking forward of doing many things, as many as I can!

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Unscripted Off-Road Back-Riding to the Chocolate Mountains

January 13, 2013, 7:31 am

≫ Next: Challengingly Sweet Journey to Licuan-Baay, Abra

≪ Previous: Witnessing 2013's First Sunset (and full moon?) in Perspective

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"This is no longer a part of the script but it is essential to make the story worthy. This is purely an escape and a beautiful way of getting lost!"

The path was not easy. It requires that you must get physical and brave. And I said, it is unscripted because it is not the type of off-road riding designed for packaged/paid-tours wherein the things you are going to see and the so-called "off-road" you are going to take is like a script of a movie that is already written and anticipated and it mainly caters the thrill designed for tourists paying for the touristy off-road rides.

I call this natural wonder as Chocolate Mountains.

So this pick-up back-riding adventure has a different script. The script is on the spot and it requires a driver who can go on the spot and a guide who is knowledgeable enough about the destination to keep the story going.

The destination is the town of Licuan-Baay, a place not recommended for solo travelers (as per assessment) and an overnight stay for strangers is a scene that should be cut by the director of the movie. If you haven't heard about that town, I have made an introduction post to help you get an idea what to expect there (click here) but of course, that intro post is just the surface. We will explore this town deeper in the upcoming posts of this series.

...and I miss these instant friends!

I was riding at the back of a pick-up. It was a personal choice. Although I was given a chance to ride like a prince, I preferred to savor the view of this first-time-to-see destination. I wanted a bigger space where I can rotate my body 360degrees. I practically didn't want to miss any good thing.

With me at the back are two men whom I have met for the first time. We don't know each other but an instant friendship was established.

We devised ways to make our stay at the back comfortable and adaptable. But it turned out to be more memorable than comfortable.

The fast-running car has left us awed as we pass the road amidst wide post-rainy season brown grazing fields then slowly but surely, the road has been successful enough to conceal that we are already ascending to a higher altitude.

Prelims: Pine-clad mountains, Eucalyptus-topped hills

Pine trees growing naturally along the road

Eucalyptus-topped post-rainy days brown hills.

The start of the ride will not allow you yet to see the Chocolate Mountains as I call it because those preliminary mountains host pine trees naturally while some are intentionally planted with eucalyptus that give a menthol-y smell to the air.

But if you try to notice them, mostly are low-rise mountains and hills already covered with post-rainy days brown grasses. 

The smooth start

The start of the ride was smooth. As you go farther, the scene becomes different. Totally different from the capital town -- empty road that gradually turns rough and those mountain views not seen in the capital town.

I was just enjoying the smooth ride as we gradually ascend to the mountains. All I know that time is I will be seeing heavily-forested lush green mountains of December.

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As we were going farther, more remote than ever, I was expecting that the mountains must have thicker woods and hardcorely verdant mountains but the script of the real-life movie where I was a part was just unpredictable. 

You don't know what will happen next and how the story will end because as I go deeper to the Cordilleras, the mountains start to become brown.

"Oh, where am I going?" I asked myself. The place becomes more strange every second and the movie has turned oblivious for the ending.

However I know, this will be more exciting. I have erased all the expectations in my mind and just waited what will happen next - not certain but I think it is much better. At least, I know I am in good hands and I am safe wherever they will take me.

The real score has come. The flow is no longer smooth, it starts to become bumpy and dusty as the environment starts to turn brown and the sun has poured out heat to indirectly squeeze out our sweat.

It becomes tiring and more challenging I know but it becomes more thrilling. This is no longer a part of the script but it is essential to make the story worthy. This is purely an escape and a beautiful way of getting lost!

Licuan-Baay is the name, the home of this brown paradise. These natural features are higher/taller than Bohol's Chocolate Hills but they are less known, undiscovered and too remote to see. As the off-road back-riding becomes more intense, the reward becomes more alleviating.

There it appears and this is now real! The pine-clad and eucalyptus-topped mountains have just diverted my expectations. It was like a tremendous mound of chocolates!!!

The view is surreal! I can't help but to take cycles of deep breathes and it took me few minutes before sinking-in to the point that what I was seeing is real.

Actually the town is too huge that a day is not enough to explore the place and it could be costly and butt-numbing. My white shirt has turned cream and my dark skin has turned whiter because it was totally covered with dusts.

Endless mound of chocolates, that is. But I am not telling that all mountains in Licuan-Baay look like this. There are also green mountains and mind you, these chocolate mountains (a personal name I coined for these mountains) turn green during rainy days. Check out the photo below.

There's nothing to lose, rain or shine, there's something magnificent to see. If this is the price, I would not mind traveling off-road once again and every now and then.

As we were winding the off-roads in the Chocolate Mountains, I thought I have already penetrated deep the Abrenian Cordilleras but I was wrong, we are still going deeper and those brown mountains were just a grand welcome. We're still at the surface of the town! The town is really huge and it is composed of two unofficial districts called Licuan and Baay.

I was able to penetrate more of the Baay side and it is another story as the road is getting intensely excruciating and the challenge is getting exclusive for the brave and the determined. For those who can not take a more extreme level of off-road traveling, think twice.

Military escort turned photographer (photo op)

The adventure was made possible through these people (Candid shot)

Look at those mountains at the back!

The story doesn't stop here. The scene got more intense and thrilling as we go deeper in the town. This is the real sense of adventure. Now I am feeling how to get really lost wonderfully! 

I discovered great things in Baay, but before reaching the inner barangays, it requires that we have to survive the next part of the challenge. To be continued...

Map of Abra showing the location of Licuan-Baay

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

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Challengingly Sweet Journey to Licuan-Baay, Abra

January 22, 2013, 6:34 am

≫ Next: Longganisa Festival | A Colorful Vigan City Fiesta

≪ Previous: Unscripted Off-Road Back-Riding to the Chocolate Mountains

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"No complaints. I am loving it not that I want to do it so that I have something to write but because it activates my brain cells to think, analyze and think again."

And the memorable journey to the remote Cordillera town of Licuan-Baay continues. Taking the main road, it is Licuan at my left side and Baay at the right. Do not be confused, because Licuan and Baay are two recognized subdivisions of the town but these two subdivisions join together as one to form the town of Licuan-Baay. It is a unique case for such a town in the Philippines.

I just have seen the Chocolate Mountains and I am still at the back of the pick-up that I enjoyed the most while traveling along a road that might become impassable during heavy rains. But never mind about that because I have learned many things in this town. In the long run, the main reason why I travel is not really to relax, but to learn and discover. Our life is an unending course syllabus and the places we go are unlimited sources of knowledge.

As I continue the journey, I wondered how the people survive in this town and their strategies to survive in a remote town like this is another lesson worth studying for. I live in the city where trade, commerce and financial institutions thrive so for this subject, I must say I am dumb yet. I know studying these strategies requires living in this town. However, a day trip to Baay already gave me many information and it surely did gave additional knowledge to me.

I don't mind the effort reaching the place because our life is a matter of adaptation. If you can adapt with what is uneasy, then moving to an easier life would be a bonus. It is your edge because you have been trained to dwell in a simpler town. That is, the townsmen of Baay are more resilient in terms of rural survival and that is their edge. They are well-trained to adapt to such situation and as I was saying, it is another life lesson we might want to learn.

And it was undeniably a long off-road riding. No complaints. I am loving it not that I want to do it so that I have something to write but because it activates my brain cells to think, analyze and think again. It keeps the brain functioning. Everything I see was a great subject to think on.

A lot of questions linger in my mind. It was a jigsaw puzzle on how could I reconcile the things. Why the mountains are brown? Why eucalyptus trees are planted atop the hills? How do the people mine gold? How often they go to market to shop? How does the road look like when it is raining? How come there's gold in those mountains? Uh... endless questions. It keeps my brain functioning. Visiting this town is a quest for knowledge.

My trip to the town is indeed unforgettable. I am just lucky that I was allowed to hitch on a car for free. Everytime I share my experiences to my friends and relatives, they would say "Nagtured kan! (You're brave!)" - thinking about the bad publicity people hear about Abra. But that's not the point. Abra has a different side that people overlook onto. It is a province where hidden natural wonders are left untouched (or less explored at least), thus, the original beauty may remain.

I am still at the back and I asked someone beside me if we're near. The man who is a resident of the town and who was with me said, "We're near," and after an hour, we're still on the road. So that is how he defines near. Just imagine how huge the size of this mountain town is, that the time you have to consume traveling within the town speaks about hours. Well, this is the case at the Baay side and going to the barangays of Licuan side is another story. Huge town!

I can sense that we are gradually descending and at a point, I am now seeing a river streaming down the valley. Yup! We're heading to a valley which is the heart of the Baay side. There are schools and houses already -- a community veiled by the mountains!

So I reached the heart of Baay - very raw! [Almost] everything I see is a work of nature. The brown mountains have turned green. The place is very laid back yet nostalgic. It feels like I am really lost!

The shallow river is teaming with natural resources. At the banks of the river is an edible fern called pacpaco and a main stay river fish called palileng. These are gifts of nature that the people of Baay are harvesting.

A mini-waterfall along the road

Crossing the river

Pacpaco or Paco (Pako) - the edible fern I ate in Baay

...reached the town under a beautiful sunny weather

...met the town mayor, Hon. Christopher Millare (middle) at his house

For security and safety purposes

For self-defense purposes, lols!

Finally, finally, finally. I have reached the heart of Baay. I have endured the exhausting ride but it was all of worth because of the new discoveries I learned.

But wait, the sweet journey isn't over yet because I have to leave the house of the mayor for a separate adventure. Sharing my experience going to that surprise destination might make this blog post a multi-chapter book so I am omitting it. For the second time, I have to trek without a footwear again. I have to do it because my guide did it so I thought it was a must. Below is my guide trekking in barefoot. To be continued...

My guide, trekking in barefoot

Location of Licuan-Baay, Abra on Map

Click the map above to load all posts about Licuan-Baay or you can follow the series below:

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

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Longganisa Festival | A Colorful Vigan City Fiesta

January 27, 2013, 6:37 am

≫ Next: Licuan-Baay, Abra | Trekking in Barefoot for the Second Time

≪ Previous: Challengingly Sweet Journey to Licuan-Baay, Abra

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"The Longganisa Festival marks the opening of a year-long cultural celebration in Vigan."

Longganisa Festival is the first festivity celebrated in Vigan every year which usually happens every 22nd of January, the date of the cityhood of Vigan. However, Januray 25 is the exact date of the Vigan City fiesta, also the date of the conversion of the city's patron saint, St. Paul.

Without too much ado, allow me to share to you my Longganisa Festival experience by posting these humble photos.

The art of balancing

The Vigan sway...

Artistic back

Little kids dancing on the streets

Flying saucers of the Longganisa Festival

The smile of Longganisa Festival

Joining the street party!

With street dancers from my Alma Mater

Remembrance...

The street before the street dancing

Laid back street before the street dancing...

The heritage city of Vigan never fails to amaze me. The love of living here continues to blossom each day making this little heritage city hard to leave.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Licuan-Baay, Abra | Trekking in Barefoot for the Second Time

February 3, 2013, 9:30 am

≫ Next: Blog Carnival: Where do Broken Hearts Go? (A Traveler's Perspective)

≪ Previous: Longganisa Festival | A Colorful Vigan City Fiesta

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"The reason why he (my guide) trekked in barefoot is a mystery to me. So I just thought trekking in barefoot will help make it easy..."

From unusual mountains, to great exotic foods and kind locals, I knew by myself that those encounters were just the beginning, more are coming. The grand waterfalls, virgin caves and subterranean rivers are so hidden in the mountains of the town and that it requires hours of trekking. Sigh, if only the hidden natural wonders are near, I would not mind getting wet and dirty. I don't lose hope, there are two accessible waterfalls in Licuan-Baay I may still see and the first one is located in a sitio called Panaclisan.

Curious + Itchy Feet

Slowly but surely, I know I'm now also on my trek to the fulfillment of my simple joys and aspirations -- and that is to explore far-flung towns, discover and understand them, create memorable experiences and share my stories out of curiosity, courage and a bit of survival.

Too many towns to explore and in the province of Abra alone, there are 27. The other provinces are waiting. I must say life is too short and my resources are so limited. But I'll just go, wherever my curious feet take me.

And I will follow this trail.

And as I always say, I write [talk] a lot on this blog. This is my 4th  post for this current town.

Sorry if I can hardly move on. Anyway this is a personal travel diary and as much as possible, I want to write everything that I feel. I don't want to miss any single detail, preferably. Because there will come a time that I will look back on these posts and cherish the memories. So get used with most of my articles, it is a long read. Not reader-friendly for that ground, but I have to do it.

Reflections...

Refreshing vista of Nalbuan!

So I am now in Brgy. Nalbuan in Baay. 20-30 minutes ride from this point is a place called Sitio Panaclisan, my next destination, still under the jurisdiction of Nalbuan.

And the reason why I have to trek in this sitio will be revealed in the next parts of this series. Riding from a car (not mine, someone drove me here) that can endure extreme road conditions, I finally reached Sitio Panaclisan and the calm river I saw a while back has turned to rapids.

And the trekking starts in search for a hidden wonder that the locals love. I have a guide who grew up in this town. He removed his footwear. I got confused. He trekked in barefoot.

The reason why he trekked in barefoot is a mystery to me. So I just thought trekking in barefoot will help make it easy so I removed my shoes and also went barefoot all the way! I was following him until my guide asked why I am in barefoot. I just smiled and said it's OK so that he won't worry. I am their visitor and I don't want to be a burden. He was concerned to me that I might step on to sharp objects. Uh, second time to trek in barefoot for unknown reason, lols!

Seriously, I just followed what he did and I thought I really need to do it.

Following my guide

Stepping through huge rocks

I can still manage...

Crossing the Footbridge

The first time I trekked in barefoot was in Alilem and it was not easy because of the slippery stones wherein I slipped and almost fell to the cliff, got wet and my head was almost bumped against the stones.

But now, it was easier because the stones are drier. The only thing  that lingers in my mind now is the reason why my guide has to trek in barefoot -- I wasn't able to ask him, I just followed him on which I learned later that it is not required at all, Hahaha! Anyway, it was a memorable experience.

At this point, we need to be serious as my guide has told me that we're near. The huge rocks are becoming even larger. Now I am seeing gigantic rocks and a natural lagoon from afar. My guide is already near and I am still following him. So what is hiding behind those gigantic rocks? I bet this will be more exciting! To be continued...

Click the map to explore more of Licuan-Baay

Licuan-Baay series: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Blog Carnival: Where do Broken Hearts Go? (A Traveler's Perspective)

February 7, 2013, 9:41 pm

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≪ Previous: Licuan-Baay, Abra | Trekking in Barefoot for the Second Time

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"Being crazy and being broken-hearted has a thin margin. Don't make yourself crazy."

Having a broken heart is not at all a disastrous condition. Sometimes it teaches you to become strong and to become wiser. It is very helpful in molding the clay of life and to turn the subject into a great masterpiece when the right time comes - well-furnished, well-finished, good looking enough to attract interested parties.

Broken heart drama: Traveling under the rain, to hide the tears, uh.

There's nothing wrong about being a carrier of a broken heart. It is just a compound noun but will work out as a verb to teach a great life lesson, or an inspiration if not a lesson. My outlook about becoming broken-hearted is positive. Call me jologs now please! Although at first, it may crash your world, can make you insane and make you lock yourself inside the bathroom for hours pretending you're dead, your wounded heart will heal eventually.

Yes, it is like a wound that may create a scar. The great thing is, if a man has experienced being wounded, the scar will remind him of his incautious past, a reminder that this time, he has to be wiser not to touch the thorns or step onto broken glasses. The same goes with the heart, the heart will know if it will get wounded, based on previous experiences and the wounds that serve as reminders.

Teach the heart where to go...

Guide the heart where to go...

So where do broken hearts go? Underwater? At the mountain top? At the crater of the volcano? Or somewhere in the horizon? Actually, you can go everywhere. However, broken-heart-carriers should go to a place where someone could understand them, fill them, feel them, lead them.

If you feel weary with your broken heart, don't go under the rain driving a bicycle (although I drove a motorbike and it is not a good idea) while imagining yourself to be the lead actor of a Korean soap opera or flooding yourself under the shower to hide the tears? Don't go the beach with plans to act as if you are drowned waiting for your lover to save you. Being crazy and being broken-hearted has a thin margin. Don't make yourself crazy.

Finding the way back home

So if you don't know where to go, go back to the basics, go back to the usual. Go back home! Find your home, find your comfort! Because home is where the heart is - the home that nurses a broken heart, the home that teaches a stubborn heart, the home that comforts a weary heart.

For me, being with loved ones and motorbike riding is home, and for a broken heart, it makes me love my home more than ever! The loved ones will make me feel loved and driving a motorbike far away from home will drive the pain away and kiss the hurt goodbye. Home is where you can find the kind of love that will never break your heart. A home that will take care of your heart until you are ready to take the risk again (end). ///

This post is the #TownExplorer's entry for the Pinoy Travel Bloggers' (PTB) blog carnival for the month of un-bitter broken-hearted travelers, February 2013.

Hosted and compiled by the Rakistang Nars, Rain Amantiad-Campanilla under the it's-my-ex's-great-loss theme: "Where do Broken Heart Go?" with Whitney Houston singing at the background as a strict requirement.

Check out Langyaw blog to see the previous compilations.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

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Panaclisan Falls | First Waterfall I've Seen in Abra

February 14, 2013, 7:54 am

≫ Next: WILAWIL FALLS: Secluded Waterfalls in Baay, Abra

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"...every town has it's own way to amaze people if only we will learn to appreciate the simple things."

The province of Abra is a mountainous province, at most, so I used to expect of seeing a lot of waterfalls (at least along the road) aside from the great Abra River I have been documenting by following it's trail through the many towns where it flows. Expectations never entered the realm of reality. I have always been thinking of seeing waterfalls dropping along the road from the mountainside like what I saw along the Tagudin-Cervantes-Sabangan Road but none appeared.

Here, I concluded that the waterfalls of Abra were especially designed by nature to hide for good. In that way, they will be protected from the hands of irresponsible tourists, if there are. So the first ever waterfall I have to see in Abra is located around 4 hours from the capital town of Bangued and it was not an easy mission.

Panaclisan Falls - short drop amidst stunning rock formations

It is called by the locals as Panaclisan Falls because it is located in a sitio called Panaclisan in Brgy. Nalbuan of the town (at the Baay side).

It was not a tall and a wide waterfall but I don't care. While some people who travel are looking after "what's famous" or "what's grandiose," for me it is a different thing. I am more excited seeing what is less known, less visited and less hyped. While the famous waterfalls have been seen and photographed a million times, the other waterfalls remain in hiding waiting for them to be discovered by other people who can appreciate what they can offer.

In the long run, I am into town exploring. Whether or not I have seen stunning wonders and views, I will still share what I discovered in town and every town has it's own way to amaze people if only we will learn to appreciate the simple things.

Huge rocks that veil the waterfall

Before the short waterfall is a trek through huge stones and white-washed rock formations. The huge rock formations hide the waterfall with a cool deep aquamarine natural lagoon.

Below are photos of Panaclisan Falls, the first ever waterfalls I encountered in the province of Abra and there are more to come. Promise!

Natural Pool. Cool swimming!

Rocks as natural walls

Just dived...

Little girls of Nalbuan

...and I really love these rock formations around

Green everywhere

Deep, cool, refreshing natural highland pool.

Refreshing downstream in Brgy. Bulbulala

Remembrance... 

The waterfall is short but imagine that -- the drop is sufficient enough to carve a natural pool and to maintain a deep and wide natural lagoon that never run out of water even during dry season. Small yet it has a big role!

Map of Licuan-Baay, Abra: Click the map to load all posts about the town.

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 Licuan Baay Series: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

WILAWIL FALLS: Secluded Waterfalls in Baay, Abra

February 19, 2013, 3:58 am

≫ Next: Baay, Abra | Points of Interest and Town Exploration Guide

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"I love how the place gave me the feeling of having an intimate relationship with nature. This water wonder is simply undisturbed..."

Forgive me, because I am thinking now that I'm already over-hyping the town. This is my 6th post for the town of Licuan-Baay. As I always tell you, this blog is a personal travel diary where I write everything I feel and think. And in Baay, there are just a lot of stories to share.

I just have trekked to Panaclisan Falls, the first ever waterfall I've seen in Abra and unexpectedly, my second waterfall encounter in Abra also happened in the same town. Uhh, how I love this mountain town. It taught me a lot and allowed me to discover many things that are not mainstream.

Erratum (Photo Watermark): It should be Bulbulala, instead of Nalbuan..

In a far away forest of Baay vegetated with species of thin bamboos, giant ferns and other native forest trees is a secluded waterfall. I have always believed that if a forest is healthy, there is always a water wonder hidden within - could it be a cool spring or hot spring, rapids, waterfalls, lake, river, and the like.

Passing through dusty and sometimes muddy mountainside and intra-forest roads, a secluded waterfall was witnessed by me. The locals call this remarkable waterfall as Wilawil Falls.

Calm stream of Wilawil

Clear, shallow, undisturbed waters of Wilawil

Because it is secluded, this natural wonder is less disturbed, or undisturbed at all by human and it is located in a place where you need to exert extra effort to reach it.

In this case, you can see a pure natural masterpiece. The stream coming from the waterfall is unbelievably peaceful and calm. Withered leaves from the forest trees fall down the stream and stay underneath the surface of the shallow clear waters.

Taken from a higher elevation

The Instagrammy photo above is one of the single drops of this waterfall. What makes this Wilawil Falls secluded is the fact that the cascading waters can not be seen well from afar. You need to walk close. It is just covered by huge stones or mossy rock formations. This waterfall is simply hiding.

Wilawil Falls of Baay, Abra drops down to a narrow space between big rocks, and the waters also exit to a very narrow outlet then comes out from hiding to maintain a shallow and calm pool in front of the rocks that hide it.

Shallow pool to grace you a welcome

I love how the place gave me the feeling of having an intimate relationship with nature. This water wonder is simply undisturbed and the effort it requires in reaching this short and hiding waterfall located far from the settlements of human is probably it's most practical defense. In that way, the beauty will remain the most natural way, unaltered.

Click the map to see all posts about Licuan-Baay Town

Licuan-Baay series: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Baay, Abra | Points of Interest and Town Exploration Guide

February 22, 2013, 9:29 am

≫ Next: Cultural Experience with the AMMUTAN TRIBE of Manabo

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"Just in case you are planning to visit this remote town for adventure or research purposes, I want to share this travel guide including points of interest that might awaken the curiosity in you."

The points of interest here may not be a stunning view but it could offer sights and experiences that will last long in your memory.

Baay is the southern tribal domain of the Binongan Tribe of Abra in the town of Licuan-Baay or interchangeably called as Baay-Licuan. Licuan is a different domain. But these two tribal domains form as one town.

Baay, Abra Countryside

Where to Stay. It is highly recommended to contact someone in Baay whom you trust. If you have a friend here, much better. There are no accommodations or inns here aside from staying in the houses of the local residents.

If you are serious enough exploring this town for a research project, then the best way is to get in touch with the town mayor or the provincial government of Abra in Bangued at the Provincial Capitol. They may assist in finding a place to stay overnight but that would not be an easy thing I know. Still, the best way is to get in touch to someone whom you know here or connect to the connections of your connections.

The house of the incumbent mayor (as of this writing), Christopher Millare is located in Brgy. Bulbulala in Baay which is 3-4 hours away from Bangued (includes the 1.5 to 2 hours of off-road riding from the main road).

Now this is the first requirement you have to consider, if you think you can pass this stage, then well and good :)

At the town Mayor's residence

Get a guide. Ok, if you are really serious enough to visit this town for research, get your guide. You know, I am particular with "research projects" because I would not yet recommend this for glampackers and some tourists. I would recommend this town for backpackers and researchers who don't have a room for disappointments upon visiting this town. This town is open for the curious and the brave. 

I won't overrate, so I am telling now that this town is good for researchers or curious travelers only. Considering the effort and the cost of getting here, there are no sites that could rival the top destinations in the Philippines and great places like El Nido, Vigan, Chocolate Hills (although it has the self-coined Chocolate Mountains), or other ultra-worthy vistas for a tourist's eye. This town welcomes people who wants to gain knowledge or satisfy their curiosity. If you are interested, give me a message and I will try to contact some of my connections in Abra to serve as your guide.

With Michael Bumogas, guiding me to Panaclisan Falls.

How to get there. After getting a guide and securing an accommodation, you have to commute now in a jeep. Sometimes, it might require you to topload while taking a dusty road to accommodate all the passengers. There is only 1 jeep that traverse the Bangued-Baay route and it travels to Baay every other day (Any update for this? I hope there are more than 1 jeeps now). So it is important to get a guide.

Wear clothes that could protect you from the heat of the sun. Bring water. Empty your bowel and bladder before the ride. It is a long challenging ride. If you have a private vehicle, much better. Your guide will guide you for the route.

Points of Interest (Attractions in Town)

Next are these points of interest (a phrase I will use in this town as an alternative for tourist attractions). These spots, though not as great as the others, might still give you the urge to explore the town especially if you're just curious like me to see how all the towns in the Philippines look like.

Baay Mountain ranges

Baay-Licuan Mountain ranges. The mountain ranges of Baay is a point of interest. The mountains are brown and bald. But they say, it is because of the quality of the topsoil that is unable to host trees. Others say it is simply deforestation.

Note that not all mountains in Baay look like this, some are really verdant too. These mountains can be seen along the Abra-Kalinga Road. To learn more about this spot, click here.

Mt. Capcappo

Mt. Capcappo (or Capcapo). It may look barren and hideous but this mountain is rich in gold deposits. The people of Licuan-Baay climb this mountain not for leisure but to dig it's golds through small-scale-mining scheme.

A Canadian company used to apply a large-scale mining permit here but it was not granted primarily due to the resistance of the indigenous residents of the town.

A Mountain Ranch in Baay

Mountain Ranches. Baay is home to some ranches that occupy one whole mountain or hill. Most of them are owned by private ranchers but there is a ranch here owned by ASIST (Abra State Institute for Science and Technology).

Enjoy these breathtaking views of the ranches of Baay and see herds freely roaming around these high-altitude grazing fields.

Panaclisan Falls

Panaclisan Falls and Lagoon. Another interesting point in Baay is the Panaclisan Falls. It is a short waterfall but great enough to sustain a cool, deep, wide natural lagoon that never runs out of water.

My guide said this place is a favorite place of the locals for picknicking, swimming and bonfire. I don't know how they place a fire here. Learn more about Panaclisan Falls, click here:

Wilawil Falls

Wilawil Falls is another short waterfall in Baay about 20-feet tall. This one is secluded and it is located within the forest areas of Baay.

It has calm and shallow streams. Wilawil Falls is hidden - located very far from the settlements and hiding in front of huge rocks. See more, click here:

A River in Bulbulala, Baay

River Bumming. No beach bumming during summer in highlands but you could river-bum. Swim into Bulbulala's fresh and inviting river or simply relax and enjoy the view. You can also catch a river fish if you like.

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Here is a travel guide to the town of Licuan-Baay and finally, uhhhh, I'm done with my Licuan-Baay series. Huh! It took me more than a month to blog all my town exploration stories in Baay. I hope to see you in my next town. Thank you for following our Licuan-Baay series fellow #TownExplorers! 'Til our next town!

Much Love, 

Edmar

#TownExplorer

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Licuan-Baay series: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | You are reading Part 7

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Cultural Experience with the AMMUTAN TRIBE of Manabo

March 4, 2013, 10:14 pm

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"There was a language barrier but the mere fact that I am witnessing a portion of their culture has made me think that these people are simply unique and blessed!"

Being able to witness a small portion of the cultural beauty of the Ammutan Tribe is already enough to give me chills and fascination. It made me think how meager my exposure is to the indigenous people (IP) of our country; and how little my knowledge is about the original Filipinos (pre-colonial natives, also called as Austronesians, a general term for this original Pacific islanders. "Filipino" is coined after the Spanish regime's King Philip). I have been preoccupied so much with lowland living, and lately, city lifestyle which has changed my view to how should I look the Philippines as a nation.

A young generation of the Ammutan Tribe, to continue the legacy

Then upon seeing and experiencing a dose of the culture of the 4 Tinguian sub-tribes of Abra, my point of view changed instantly. Actually there are 12 sub-tribes, I have seen 4 of them  as of this writing. But for now, I want to take it slow and feature one tribe at a time. Of course, I am on my way of seeing and experiencing more of this Indigenous People and hoping to see all the 12 Tinguian sub-tribes.

With this experience, it would be safe to say that the Philippines is already a thriving civilization before the Westerners came to colonize our beautiful country. We have our own identity as a nation and this is evident by the culture and traditions of our mountain tribes being uninfluenced much by the Westerners.

Smile of an Ammutan Girl

Ammutan Tribe is said to be the descendants of a certain man called Ammut. But now, the Ammutan tribe is called as Muyadan tribe. Ammutan Tribe a.k.a. Muyadan Tribe inhabit the town ofManaboin Abra.

In a barangay called Catacdegan (subdivided into Catacdegan Viejo and Nuevo), members of the Ammutan tribes (and some non-Ammutan people) gathered to celebrate an occasion.

Suddenly, male kids in G-strings and girls in their Tinguian clothes came. Then they danced their traditional Tadek with pride. The music playing sounds familiar but the words... the words were not. It was sung in their Ammutan dialect. There was a language barrier but the mere fact that I am witnessing a portion of their culture has made me think that these people are simply unique and blessed! They can understand my language but I can't understand theirs. They continued their tribal dancing that served as a cultural feast before my eyes.

Kids in G-String

Following the beat

Pretty Ammutan Girl

Young boys of the tribe

Love and Pride

Beautiful gesture

Colorful Itneg Clothes and Accessories

In sync

Ammutan/Muyadan kids

As I am making a research more about these Tinguian tribes, I found out that they are considered as pagans, in a Christian point of view. These pagans worship the nature, have rituals and traditions that give honor to the elements of nature.

But as I witness the Ammutan tribes, it was not an absolute paganistic tribe maybe because some members of the tribe have gained exposure to the outside world of Christianity.

As they danced, I was hearing a familiar music at the background that I used to sing when I was a kid (and until now) in our church. The song tells about the great love of Jesus Christ to all children in the world whatever race and nation they belong.

But the music playing has different words. It was studio-recorded in their tribal dialect. I can't understand the words but at least, as a Christian, I am looking forward that paganistic rites and rituals can be modified to a Christian point of view without sacrificing their intangible cultural heritage. It's complicated because most tribal rituals and rites are mainly an-anito-worship. So, the introduction of the gospel would mean stopping nature-worship, hence their traditions. But of course, as I witness the Ammutan tribes of Manabo, they can embrace Christianity without leaving the good traditions of their tribal bloodline.

...to the tune of a kiddie song, "Jesus Loves the Little Children" 

tadek... tadek... tadek...

Proud kid of the Ammutan Tribe

Our society is too complex, and our opinions too. So whatever race or tribe we belong, we need to respect each other. In the long run, the world can be a better place to live if there is unity in diversity.

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You are reading the Part 1 of my Manabo #TownExploration Series

Part 1| Part 2 | Part 3 | 

Tags: Ammutan Tribe | Muyadan Tribe | Tribes of Manabo, Abra | Cordillera Tribes | 

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Kawayan Festival featuring Abra-inspired Terno Fashion Show

March 9, 2013, 8:01 am

≫ Next: Manabo Bridge | "Bridge of Stupidity" in Abra

≪ Previous: Cultural Experience with the AMMUTAN TRIBE of Manabo

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Kawayan Festival (officially known as Abrenio Kawayan Festival) is Abra's greatest festival coinciding with the foundation day of the province. 

It showcases the arts, craft and diverse culture of the province. It primarily highlights the kawayan (bamboo) which grows abundantly in the province. Kawayan is then used by the Abrenios as a raw material in creating indigenous crafts and local products.

But what I am going to highlight today is not about this kawayan, sorry for that. Because Kawayan Festival is not at all about the kawayan, there are also other activities that are worth watching for. As for me, I was able to watch the TERNO FASHION SHOW. It is not your ordinary fashion show because this event features Terno gowns with a twist. This twist is about mixing the Tinguian elements in some of the dresses making it authentically Abra-inspired, not to mention that the fabric used are Abra-made So let's take a look what happened that day by viewing some of my [trashy] photos.

This Abra-inspired fashion show was held at the Abra Provincial Grandstand Gymnasium in Bangued town. The models were the beautiful women of Abra themselves coming from different age groups (from teens to senior citizens) who came to represent their own town. These women all walked down the stage to showcase the beauty of their culture, arts and crafts.

Most of the fabrics used were locally made from Bulbulala, a loom-weaving village in La Paz town of the same province. The village is among the last villages in Ilocos-Abra area that have local weavers of Abel, an Ilocano woven fabric.

The presence of Abel-weavers in Abra also shows the strong presence of the Ilocano culture. The Ilocanos share a space with the Tinguian tribesmen in the province.

The event was opened with lovely Ilocano love songs sung by an Abrenio choir.

Don't think I am now shifting from travel blogging to fashion blogging, LOLS! I blogged this because I believe this event is an inherent part of the Abrenian culture and the Kawayan Festival. Indeed a must-see event in Abra.

Bangued, Abra on Map

Read more posts about #Bangued | Hint: Click the map above

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Manabo Bridge | "Bridge of Stupidity" in Abra

March 15, 2013, 7:33 am

≫ Next: Vigan Dancing Fountain | Plaza Salcedo Repackaged

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The question is when are they going to wait? It will be finished soon. But how soon is soon?

The province I am already learning to love is clad with hopes and dreams. I have been going and exploring many of the towns of Abra. Even how far some of the towns may seem, it doesn't matter. Curiosity drives me insane to visit towns that are not even heard by some especially now that someone in the province has been helping me to explore Abra's towns -- a person I met through my blog.

Overview/Etiology

Manabo Bridge (aka Sto. Tomas Bridge) as of February 2013

It was Winnie Monsod, a TV host-commentator who called this bridge as the Bridge of Stupidity. It could be insulting, however it is somehow true.

Local residents used to cross the river using bamboo rafts. They bravely took the risk of "going with" the  strong current of the river just to cross it. During medical emergencies at night, the absence of bridge will hinder them from getting a fast access to the nearest hospitals in the capital town of Bangued.

Thereafter, the idea of putting up a barge/ferry to assist the commuting public and private vehicles was realized. This served as a great help for the people of Abra. The towns may have been separated by great rivers but these barge/ferry service is coping up to unite the Abrenios somehow.

But of course during typhoons and heavy rains, the river is too risky to cross hampering the flow of trade and delivery of basic services for the tows after this river. Good to know that upon my visit to the town of Manabo (hometown of the Ammutan/Muyadan Tribe), the bridge is about to be finished and this will be a great reason for the Muyadan tribe to celebrate.

The Story of Stupidity

Crossing the river via barge overlooking the Manabo Bridge

Some people I have befriended in Abra know about the source of this tagline -- Bridge of Stupidity. But some are not aware at all. As I said it was Winnie Monsod who called this bridge that way in her documentary.

Luz Rimban is her article at the pcij.org provided a clear discussion about the story of the bridge of stupidity.

Take the Sto. Tomas Bridge, now an eight-pier, six-span eyesore in Manabo town that, if completed, would ease travel to and from southeastern Abra. Its story began in 1994 when the then mayor, through the intercession of relatives with access to budget officials in Manila, managed to obtain P20 million for the construction of a bridge. 

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineers told the mayor the money was insufficient, and suggested an alternative site in another town where the river was narrower and where there were existing approaches called abutments waiting for a bridge to be built. But the mayor was adamant. It was he who got the money and therefore only he was to decide where the bridge would stand. (Additionally, the mayor wanted to place it at the wider part of the river under his political jurisdiction).

The mayor got his way. The result is a structure that hovers over barely a third of the river. The townsfolk have been told that the mayor, who was succeeded by his son in the last elections, is still trying to raise funds to finish what he started. An additional P8 million from the provincial government has already enabled the DPWH to build one more pier. The CCAGG, though, thinks that kind of money could have built two piers and a span. (excerpts from pcij.org).

Until now, the bridge isn't finished yet. Should the bridge has been placed on the narrower part of the river (which is at the other town), it would have been finished by now.

Stories tell that the then mayor wanted the bridge to be within Manabo since the main beneficiaries are the people of the town, so it has to be constructed at the wider part of the river.

The Remedy

Unusable Manabo Bridge from afar

Before crossing the river in Manabo

Toploading? Overloading? -- the barge can handle them all

Anchor

I intended to post the photos after the subtitle "The Remedy" because I know they speak well more than words can say. Since the bridge is of no use, this barge serves as the connection of Manabo and other towns to the external world beyond this river.

So what now?

An eyesore, or could it be a stupid megalith?

The bridge is almost finished when I visited Manabo. According to my source, the bridge is set to be finished this year or next year under Cong. Bernos and Gov. Bersamin. But for us to be able to see how stupid this bridge looks like, I borrowed a photo from Gerard Flores taken on May 2009 which is the one posted above.

During the time of Gloria Arroyo, this bridge was funded with an estimated 290 million pesos. We don't know what happened, maybe the fund was carried by the river? Shall we blame corruption? Or shall we blame the strong current of the river that washed away the fund? Now, the people are waiting for the completion of the bridge. The question is when are they going to wait? It will be finished soon. But how soon is soon?

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You are reading Part 2 of my Manabo #TownExploration Series

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Map of Abra showing the Location of Manabao

Read more posts about #Manabo. Hint: Click the Map

Tags: Manabo Bridge | Bridge of Stupidity | Bridge in Abra

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Vigan Dancing Fountain | Plaza Salcedo Repackaged

March 25, 2013, 10:48 am

≫ Next: Vigan City | Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) Scenes

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The historical Plaza Salcedo, an eliptical, elevated plaza is a landmark in Vigan with the most dramatic and massive change. Unlike Vigan's great museums and precious mansions and ancestral houses, only a little  has been changed and as much as possible, they must be retained the way they looked when those structures were constructed. The plaza is named after Juan de Salcedo, the founder of the old Villa Fernandina de Vigan which later became Ciudad Fernandina and Vigan City at present. 

History tells that this plaza was susceptible to fire during the Spanish regime. So the plan then was to create a man-made lagoon to minimize fire incidents. The original concept dating back some hundred of years ago is retained until March 2013 wherein a dramatic addition has been added to the once quiet and laid back park in between the Vigan Cathedral and the Ilocos Sur Capitol. The addition is a world class dancing fountain. Anyway I won't talk much. I will fill this post with a lot of photos.

Vigan Dancing Fountain

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Looking back 

But before we forget the old feel of the Plaza Salcedo that for sure we will all miss, let's view some photos below (minus the fountain tubes).

I will miss the old Plaza Salcedo

Crowd of Spectators

Crowd: Waiting for the opening of the fountain

Now: Surrounded by water-emitting tubes

The obelisk has a new look now

Crowd build-up: Few minutes before the opening

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The main event

I have no more words to say. I am left speechless.

Bonus: Video 

Let's share the good news to our friends, relatives and social media! 

Tags: Vigan Dancing Fountain | Plaza Salcedo Dancing Fountain | Vigan Laser and Light Fountain Show

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Vigan City | Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) Scenes

March 28, 2013, 10:11 pm

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"This is Holy Week up north. This is Vigan, like any other places in the Philippines."

I'm sure many of us know how Vigan is covered with deep-rooted Roman Catholic traditions since it became the religious center up north during the Spanish regime. The Spanish influence continued to live. Bigueños are so much engaged with religious events whole year round. Personally, I don't join these activities because I have my own principles but I just want to let the readers know how Vigan looks like during Holy Week.

I walked around the heritage district at the night of Domingo de Ramos. I have seen boys in their themed clothes handling some props and candles.

In front the Vigan Metropolitan Cathedral, a crowd of Roman Catholic devotees persistently waited for the start of the procession. This is how Vigan opened the Holy Week via Palm Sunday.

A well-lighted man-made figure of a saint was promenaded around the historic town. 

It was pushed by some devotees carefully as not to let it fall. At the back of this imagery are other sculptures dressed with shimmering clothes with crowns and lights.

At the other smaller church of Vigan, weavers and vendors of palaspas was a crowd as devotees also flocked in number that the church can no longer accommodate.

This is Holy Week up north. This is Vigan, like any other places in the Philippines.

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Vigan Procession; Observing the Semana Santa in Vigan

March 30, 2013, 8:20 am

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"I hope everyone shall change for the better. It should not just be a tradition but it should be a goal to enrich our spiritual lives."

Vigan's culture and traditions are intangible part of it's rich heritage; and the Holy Week has come. Religious people comes out. Vigan's culture during the Lent spills out to a severe degree. Religious people flock to the streets with candles with them and their carrozas carrying the image of the saints.

Vigan Holy Week Crowd

I went to the heritage districts of the city. Riding a motorbike, the easiest way to go around the historic town, never became easy. The street was filled with a lot of vehicles -- traffic jam severely. Walking was the best option.

I am seeing the blend of the old and the new and on how the old manages to survive. Instead of the usual serene Vigan landscape with quiet streets and calesa all around, the historic streets lined with century-old houses became a chaos. Tourists flocked. The traffic jam is highly excruciating.

Parked the motorbike on a less-crowded corner

Not-so-relaxing Vigan street on a Holy Week

Small city, yet the space is getting more limited, smells sky-high realty cost

So I parked the motorbike. I opted to walk to the core of the city but walking down the old heritage village of a nostalgic city was not a great way to relax. The space becomes very limited. It is hard to breathe. I am missing the old Vigan I used to know when I was a kid.

But who am I to control? I want the people to see the beauty of my hometown and everyone is welcome to see the city because it is for everyone. The Holy Week, being the peak season for tourist arrival in Vigan is a bit of sacrifice on my part to endure the not-so-smooth traffic flow and stress of being in a limited space.

Crowd waiting for the coming out of the saints' sculpted images

I walked to the Vigan Cathedral and still, crowd keeps growing in number. The religious people are waiting for the coming out of the saints' sculpted images. Sometimes I ask myself, is this really just a tradition or a devotion? I believe devotion has more bearing than tradition.

Now the first sculpture went out. A big number of people followed the imagery. Handling their candles, they walked after the well-lighted carroza of the imagery pushed by some of them around the town. It marked the beginning of the Vigan procession on a Good Friday.

The procession passing through Liberation Blvd.

With a larger carroza of the saints

So the long procession pursued. As they say, it will always end up at the church however long the procession route might be.

So after this what's next? I hope everyone shall change for the better. It should not just be a tradition but it should be a goal to enrich our spiritual lives.

Aside from the procession, the city's Plaza Burgos becomes a haven for food lovers, specifically street food lovers.

Street dining is a must try

A night-out for foodies

It's shawarma for me

Semana Santa in Vigan is also a chance to buy tiangge-price commodities and the chance to experience a street with cars replaced by food stalls.

Calle Crisologo

It was indeed a Good Friday

I ended my Good Friday walk in Vigan at Calle Crisologo. I am grateful of the great opportunities coming to Vigan and I saw the love of the people here. Tourists continue to flock and it feels cool although there are some not-so-good-friday effects. In the long run, Semana Santa in Vigan is fun if you have set your mind to enjoy the place whatever circumstance may arise.

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Lang-ay Festival - Cultural Extravaganza in Mountain Province

April 11, 2013, 9:40 am

≫ Next: Bontoc, Mt. Province | Tourist Spots, Attractions, Things to Do

≪ Previous: Vigan Procession; Observing the Semana Santa in Vigan

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"...a lowlander can still witness their way of living, their traditions and everything a lowlander needs to know about their culture."

It was hard to start this post because I was left speechless. The love for my country, and for my fellow Filipinos up in the mountains was stirred. The Igorot people, known for their headhunting culture are often mistreated this modern days. [Some] people from the lowlands see them as inferior people, with tails and black-magic chants. I would say, those people who tell those myths are the most ignorant of their kind.

The tribes of the Mountain Province, a land-locked province situated at the heart of the Cordillera mountains in Luzon island, the Philippines, converged in the cool and lovely capital town of Bontoc. They left their rice fields carved in the mountains (an exceptional engineering feat through the rice terraces) to showcase their distinct culture... their identity.

There I witnessed a culture of unity and respect, a showcase of resiliency and ingenuity and an extravagant display of talent and distinct identity. It was the Lang-ay Festival -- unique, authentic, pure, enlightening, educating and heart-warming!

Igorot man

They wear the clothes used by their ancestors - although some older Igorots in Mt. Province still use it at home. We have to admit that embracing the modern world is inevitable. These clothes are no longer worn casually by the younger generations of the Mt. Province tribes and even for the rest of the Cordilleras. Thanks to this festival, at least, it is not yet totally gone and me as a lowlander can still witness their way of living, their traditions and everything a lowlander needs to know about their culture.

Lang-ay Festival happens every 1st week of April which coincides with the foundation day of Mountain Province.

I can't seem to find the best words to describe this festival that I witnessed. It consumes me. It overwhelms me. 

Hundreds of people danced on the streets -- children, teens, adults, and even the senior citizens. It is about the love for their culture. It was purely a cultural display -- not commercialized, not really for tourists but for anyone who wants to witness the Igorot way of life, culture and traditions.

Please allow me to share additional photos of the Lang-ay festival I just witnessed. The photo gallery is situated below.

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Lang-ay Festival 2013 Photo Gallery
Please scroll to the RIGHT >>

Map of Bontoc, Mt. Province

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Bontoc #TownExploration series:

Part 1: Lang-ay Festival - Cultural Extravaganza in Mountain Province
Part 2: Bontoc, Mt. Province | Tourist Spots, Attractions, Things to Do

Tags: Lang-ay Festival 2013 | Festivals in Mt. Province | Festivals in Mountain Province | Festivals in Bontoc | Festivals in Cordillera | Photos, pictures of Lang-ay Festival 2013

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Bontoc, Mt. Province | Tourist Spots, Attractions, Things to Do

April 14, 2013, 7:13 am

≫ Next: Bontoc Museum and the Traditional Bontok Village

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"Bontoc is left overshadowed by the adventures Sagada town could offer. Bontoc is less publicized compared to Sagada."

Bontoc, the capital of Mountain Province has just gained an unfortunate location (in terms of tourism) being close to the tourist town of Sagada which can be reached via a 45-minute jeepney ride from this town. The publicity over Sagada overshadows Bontoc. 

I would want to share the things I discovered in Bontoc. There are a lot of things more to see and do here. But for now, let me share the following to you. I'll be back for sure to cover the places I've missed.

Bontoc Points of Interests included in this post: Bontoc Museum and mini Bontok village | Kadchog Rice Terraces | Alab Village | Chico River | Mt. Gotong | Palali Rice Terraces | Alab Petroglyphs  | Ganga House | Ganga Burial Caves  | Samoki Village | Bayyo Rice Terraces

Bayyo Rice Terraces

Bayyo Rice Terraces in Bayyo, Bontoc is a worthy stop-over along the Bontoc-Banaue road. This breathtaking vista can be seen when going to Banaue from Bontoc. If you have your own car, much better because you can stop anytime. This view can be seen along the road. No need to hike or trek.

How to go here: From Bontoc, ride a Banaue-bound jeepney located near the Bontoc town hall. Then drop to Bayyo Rice Terraces. If you don't want to drop here, you can just enjoy the view from your window while on your way to Banaue since not all jeepney drivers will grant your request to stop here and wait for you. Good thing, our jeepney driver volunteered to have a quick stop over here when he saw I am struggling hard to capture a photo of this view. The other passengers did not complain! Lucky kid.

Bontoc Museum

If you want to understand more of the beauty of the Igorot culture, go to Bontoc Museum, a 15-minute walk from the Bontoc town hall. I guess this is a must-see place even if Sagada is your destination-of-choice because it provides you interesting information about the way of living of the people in the province, their culture and their heritage. It will make you appreciate the things you are seeing in this province -- the rice terraces, the burial caves, the people, etc.

Kadchog Rice Terraces

Kadchog Rice Terraces is located across the Chico River in Bontoc. This towering rice terraces is located near the town center to the south. You can also see this on your way to Bontoc via the Halsema Highway. It is just one of the many rice terraces you can see here in Bontoc.

Mt. Gotong

Mount Gotong is a great leisure climb when you are in Bontoc. The mountain is located in Alab Oriente Village. The villagers require that you must have a guide when climbing here. For newbie mountain climbers like me, this is a good start. There is a 1000-step stair that will lead you to the top. But of course, you also need to hike on dirty trails because that stairway is just a part of the whole trail.

If you want more thrill, there is another trail going up without the stairway. But you will descend in that stairway too though. There's no way we can get rid of it talking about the safety of mountain climbers.

Moreover, Mt. Gotong is just a prelude for the great adventures you have to see in Alab Oriente Village. It requires that you have to climb this mountain for you to see the best kept secrets of the Bontok Igorot's heritage. More information below.

Palali Rice Terraces

This view is seen from the top of Mt. Data, another mountain you have to reach after the Mt. Gotong if you choose to ascend via the 1000-step stair (part of the 4-5 hours of trekking and hiking). Near the summit of Mt. Data is an awesome vantage point to see this rice terraces. If you have a guide, ask him/her how you switched from one mountain to another. I forgot to ask and until now I still can not figure out how.

Alab Petroglyphs

First look at the photo you might ask what is this. Well, don't underestimate what you are seeing because these are rock carvings at the top of the mountain that has been carved sometime in 1500 B.C.!

Alab Petroglyphs according to UNESCO: The other set of Petroglyphs are those found in Alab, Mountain province carved on boulders on top of promontories. The configurations are those of pudenda. The dating is relatively later and placed at not earlier than 1500 BC or even later.

I will post more stories about this in my Bontoc town exploration series.

Ganga House

Ganga house is a mysterious stone house made up of massive stones with pointed top and a space of about 3 feet from the groud to the ceiling. 

It is said to be the hiding place of the locals during the world war and an abode to ancient Igorots (prehistoric).

Ganga Burial Cave

Ganga Burial cave is probably the most interesting burial cave in the Cordilleras because of the presence of jars where the dead is placed.

This burial cave is the grave for Igorot ancestors who died because of mass-poisoning according to legend (more of this soon in this series).

Samoki Village

Samoki Village is located east of the Poblacion in Bontoc and can be reached through walking or riding on a jeep bound for Banaue.

This village is home to local weavers who make straps, G-strings, etc.

Alab tribal elders in native clothes and accessories

While exploring the Alab village, an ancient Igorot dwelling, don't forget to greet these Bontok Igorot elders and have your photo taken because they might probably be the last generation of Bontoks that still wear their traditional clothes and accessories at home.

Chico River

The Chico River here in Bontoc especially in Alab Village has wide natural pools suitable for swimming. The children here love cooling down by swimming to one of the Chico River's natural pools.

Alab Oriente Village (an ancient dwelling)

Alab village is an ancient dwelling of the Bontok Igorots and one of the evidences is the presence of the Petroglyphs. Enjoy the Burial Caves and the three sacred spots of the village. Ask your guide about it. (More stories about this in my Bontoc town exploration series.)

Watch the Lang-ay Festival Street Dancing

Lang-ay Festival is a province-wide cultural festival that happens in Bontoc every first week of April. The highlight of the festival is the street dancing and the cultural performances after the street dancing. Learn more...

How to go to Alab: Ride on a Baguio-bound or Sagada-bound bus (25 pesos) from Bontoc and drop to Alab waiting shade or hire a tricycle from Bontoc town proper and pay 120 pesos.

Where to stay in Alab: There is no hotel or inn in Alab. You have to register at the Barangay Hall for arrangement.

Where to get a guide: There are guides at the Barangay Hall upon request. Me, I met Ofelia Lopez. If you want her contact number, send me an email at edmaration@gmail.com.

How to Go to Bontoc?

From Baguio: Go to Dangwa Terminal. There are buses there bound for Bontoc. Remember to go there early. Buses that take the Baguio-Bontoc route include D' Rising Sun and GL Lizardo.

From Ilocos via Cervantes: If you want an alternative route you can use this route. This route is more practical when you are coming from Ilocos provinces, La Union or to anyone who wants to get rid of Baguio traffic. Here's how:

• (1) Drop at Bitalag Junction in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur. be sure to be here by 7 to catch the earliest van trip to Cervantes - 2 hours trip. Fare is 150 pesos.

• (2) From Cervantes, go to the Cervantes plaza and wait for a Bontoc-bound van. If you can not see a van there, ride on a tricycle and go to Bulaga rather after the Aluling bridge. Tell the driver you are going to catch the Bontoc-bound van. Fare is 40 pesos per trike (not per head) from Cervantes plaza to Bulaga. Fare from Cervantes to Bontoc by van is 130 pesos per head. Trip is 2 hours.

• (3) In case you didn't catch the van from Cervantes to Bontoc (last trip is around 1-2 pm), you can stay overnight in Cervantes, available lodging houses have rates of 200/pax (Bessang Traveler's Inn), 300-500/pax (Greenfields Lodge) and 1000+/pax (Villa Maria Inn). While in Cervantes, catch the jeep at 5:30 am in Bulaga. You can ride a tricycle from the Cervantes plaza. The owner of Greenfields can also take you to Bulaga as early as 5am to catch the jeep bound for Bontoc. Warning: This jeep is not available on Thursdays.

Note: If you have your own service, you can cut the trip 2 hours shorter compared when you use the via Baguio route.

Where to Stay in Bontoc

There are a lot of places to stay in Bontoc usually ranging from 150-500pesos/pax.

Tchapayan Hotel beside the Bontoc police station has 150/pax and 200/pax rooms. Not air-conditioned though, but Bontoc is cool, it was fine with me with the window open - with common CR. Meals are served at 80pesos per serving.

Alabama Hotel has 200/pax rooms. Located along the main road. Not air-conditioned. With common CR. They don't serve meals.

Walter Clapp has 300-500/pax rooms. This hotel is located at the parking area of Bontoc-Sagada jeeps.

Or if you want to look for more hotels that will fit your desire, just feel free to check all the hotels that line the main road in Bontoc.

Map of Bontoc, Mountain Province, Philippines

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Bontoc #TownExploration series: 

Part 1: Lang-ay Festival - Cultural Extravaganza in Mountain Province

Part 2: Bontoc, Mt. Province | Tourist Spots, Attractions, Things to Do

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Bontoc Museum and the Traditional Bontok Village

April 19, 2013, 7:39 am

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"It is a place where I found the authentic answers to my questions."

I know by myself that I can not afford to miss this. It is essential to my town explorations. Visiting museums educate me a lot... and it is where I am able to find, mostly, the answers to my questions. The knowledge it brings is priceless. Sadly, not everyone is a big fan of museums. Many find it boring, or creepy. From my end, I find museums interesting and fascinating.

Bontoc Museum Exterior

In Bontoc town, there is a museum. Ah, great thing! It is a place where I found the authentic answers to my questions. Although I love asking the locals about several questions lingering at the back of my head, sometimes it is not easy to reconcile everything especially if the people who are answering my questions have different versions of the story.

I learned to appreciate the culture and traditions of the Igorot people and that Igorot is a collective term for the "mountain people."

This museum explained to me (through the things I saw inside) that during the precolonial times, the Igorots already have a well-organized society lead by the tribal elders. The major Igorot tribes are the Ibaloi (Benguet), Bontok (Easter Half of Mountain Province), Kankana-ey (Western Mountain Province extending to Cervantes, Ilocos Sur and some parts of Benguet), Kalinga (Kalinga) and Ifugao (Ifugao). The museum also included the Tingguian people of Abra. Tingguian, like Igorot, also means "mountain people" and Tingguian is also a collective term for the 12 subtribes of Abra. So somehow, Tingguian and Igorot could be the same, if not the same.

The design of Bontoc Museum is patterned from the traditional Bontok hut with pointed roof.

A graduation ceremony was being done in front of the museum when I got there so I was not able to get a photo of the full length of the museum. The museum has 3 pointed roofs. 

Entrance Fee and Museum Hours

The entrance fee to Bontoc Museum is 60 pesos. It is open daily. Opening time is 8:00 am then closes at 12:00 pm for the lunch break then opens again at 1:00 pm and closes at 5:00 pm.

Since I can not instantly memorize the name of the streets and landmarks in Bontoc, I can not provide a comprehensive information on how to go to this museum so the best advise I could give is to ask the people how to get here. It is a 15-minute walk from the Bontoc town hall and it is easy to reach this museum. The locals can assist you well -- no need for maps and GPS. You can DIY this path.

Taking a photo inside the museum is not allowed. But I tell you, if you are thirsty of this kind of knowledge, you will appreciate everything you see inside. Most instruments (if not all) and tools of the Igorots are displayed here. There is a specific term for each object that might not have a direct translation to other dialects or languages -- not even English. That makes them unique... their identity is overflowing.

Bontok Traditional Tribal Village

At the back of the Bontoc Museum is a mini Bontok tribal village. It is a replica of what used to be an actual Bontok village from the past.

At this mini-village, I learned how systematic the society and civilization of the Igorot people. They have huts that if we compare them to our modern society, could be a residential house, a dormitory, a motel, a session hall, etc.

Dormitory: The precolonial Bontok villagers have a home for their young women called ulog. It is like a ladies' dormitory with a twist because these young women are being thought of the traditions and culture of their tribe. There's an education happening inside this ulog.

Motel: There is also a place for couples at the heart of the Bontok Village. I forgot how they call this house but for our contemporary culture, this could be a motel. This precolonial motel is where "unmarried" couples do the love scene. If the Bontok man can impregnate the Bontok woman, then they could proceed for marriage. If neither of them is capable of procreation, then they have to end the relationship as per tribal rules. This Igorot culture is somewhat controversial and I guess through the Christianization of the Cordillera tribes, they have shifted, somehow, to conservative thinking. However, the modern day motel has popped out everywhere and experimentation may happen there. Now it is changing, if the man can impregnate the man, marriage now is optional -- a bad modern-day practice that I think worse than the traditional motel practice of the Igorots.

Ato: Ato is a sacred place for the Igorots. They consider it sacred although evidence of headhunting is very present here. There is unlawful killing yet still, a sacred place. In ato, there are sculptures of human face placed inside. This represents a person killed by the tribe - the more head/face sculpture is present, the more persons are killed. Ato is considered sacred because it is where the tribal elders and leaders meet to  settle many things concerning their community and living. Ato is also a place where they do the tribal dances that honor their gods and the nature. Remember, the Igorots used to embrace the concept of paganism. Young men in puberty also stay inside the ato and the elders teach them the ways of their culture as they grow up.

These are some of the things I learned inside the Bontoc museum and the mini-Bontok village. Cheers!

Map of Bontoc, Mountain Province, Philippines

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Bontoc #TownExploration Series (Related Posts)

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