"The Ilocanos and the Itneg tribes are the two groups of people that make Abra a culturally enchanting destination. On food, the landscape, heritage and culture of the province are also deliciously present."

[ABRA, PHILIPPINES] ▬ Abra's landscapes and heritage have always brought me enlightenment. Its intangible culture is like fragrance of a fresh early morning mountain breeze wherein you can not see it but you can feel it and be satisfied. These landscapes, heritage and culture of Abra are also evident in its local food dishes.

[BANGUED] Lomo-Lomo with Pig Brain

Abra is a province unique for the mixture and/or co-existence of two cultures with different customs and traditions yet they live in harmony. The Ilocanos and the Itneg tribes are the two groups of people that make Abra a culturally enchanting destination. On food, the landscape, heritage and culture of the province are also deliciously present.

Introduction

I and a fellow travel blogger Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com were invited to witness the Abrenio Kayawan Festival 2015 (happens March 6-9 this year). We were served with home-cooked dishes so I am writing this based on the fact that I tried them (dishes) not as a customer of a restaurant but as a visitor of an Abrenian dwelling.

[BANGUED] Selfie-ing in front of the Abra Capitol

Since Abra is a half-Ilocano country (the other half owned by the native Itneg tribes), expect that the Ilocano culture is present on their dishes with the Abrenian love. The food dishes I am going to feature here are those that were offered to me during the course of my stay in Abra from March 6-9, 2015. Take note that these were 'home-cooked' for us.

Home-Cooked Dishes from Our Host

The first stop is no other than the house of the incumbent Vice Governor of Abra. We were welcomed with plethora of Ilocano cuisines with the spice of warm Abrenian hospitality. Since I am also an Ilocano (nga napekpeklan), I am familiar with the dishes served but with Abrenian delight.

Lomo-Lomo with Pig Brain: The first photo above is the lomo-lomo or lumo-lumo. It is an Ilocano soup dish made of pork. While this dish is not new to me, it is in Abra where I first saw and tasted lomo-lomo with a whole pig brain. Usually, what I've always tried in my hometown is the lomo-lomo with the ground brain so it is already mixed with the soup.

[BANGUED] Abra-Made Longganisa

Abra Longganisa: Another familiar food the Vice Governor offered us is the longganisa of Abra. The Ilocano flavor of this longganisa is much closer to the version of Vigan or compared with 's. The sour and garlicky taste were perfect for us. This longganisa was the sold-out food of the night. The plate was emptied.

[BANGUED] Imbaliktad nga Baka

Imbaligtad: Imbaliktad is an Ilocano term which means 'turned upside down.' The said method is applied in cooking this dish hence the name. The beef is stir-fried then after you 'imbaliktad' it, it's cooked! Awesome right?

[BANGUED] Igat is an eel from the great rivers of Abra.

Fried Pinindang nga Igat: Igat is a mainstay in the great rivers of Abra and their tributaries. They can grow as long as 8 feet, or probably longer. We were served with a fried Pinindang nga Igat (sun-dried eel) and the exotic vibe of Abra instantly came in the house.

[BANGUED] Pork Galore with Bagnet

The house became magical for the appetite when an Abra-made bagnet was served. Hey folks! Do I need to say more?

Home-Cooked Dish from Padaya 2015

Padaya 2015 is Abra's Kawayan Festival trade fair. A collection of the One-Town-One-Products of the province were all displayed here but of course, we were not spared from the miki craze since we're visitors. The miki here was served for public consumption but the home-cooked qualities remain.

[BANGUED] Abra Pancit Miki

Abra Miki: Another Ilocano home-cooked dish to die for in Abra is their flagship dish - the Abra miki or pancit miki. Although very common in the Ilocano republic, Abra's miki is unique in the sense that it is linked to the bi-culture of the Abrenios. More commonly recognized as an Ilocano cuisine, the Itneg tribes of Abra have also embraced miki to be a flagship dish in their province. The Ilocano palate emanating from the Ilocano's culture has been adapted by the Itneg people. I've been to different Itneg tows in Abra and I was surprised to learn that it is not only the Ilocanos who serve miki. In Abra, both groups of culture take pride of the Abra miki.

Abra miki's difference from the rest of the Ilocandias aside from the cultural harmony that it represents is the 'soup'. Ilocos miki is very colloidal (very thick that it all turns solid when dried or refrigerated) compared with Abra's. Abra's version is full of soup where you can even do the refill (like the mami noodles) which I really love.

Home-Cooked Dish from Agsimao, Tineg

One of the greatest things that happened to me during this 4-day Abra visit is revisiting a cultural paradise called Agsimao, the poblacion of the town of Tineg. Our host, Jinky Gavino, prepared what she thinks the best native dishes we can taste from their super-remote village.

[TINEG] River Fish aka Palileng

Paksiw a Palileng: Agsimao is very rich in natural resources including this river fish called palileng. They grow in the clean rivers of Tineg abundantly. This home-cooked palileng dish was just an exotic Tineg gastronomic experience.

[TINEG]Wild Boar Dish, the Baboy Ramo challenge

Linenggeng nga Laman: The term laman means 'wild boar meat' in the Adasen dialect of Tineg. Linenggeng is the term for the dish. I loved the freshly picked cabbage with the laman. It was organic and smelled goodie fresh. Tineg is very exotic and these food are just teasers.

Ending Thoughts

Abra has more local cuisines and exotic food to offer but as I've mentioned, these food dishes I've featured here are those I've only tried during my 4-day stay in the province. I'm going to feature more Abra food in the future. I had fun in Abra. Indeed, Abra's surprises and intangible beauty is unparalleled, at least on my personal experience as a traveler. You can't understand this unless you devote yourself understanding and exploring Abra in a long term basis. Happy eating! Happy town exploring!▬ end

Acknowledgements: Big thanks to the Vice Governor of Abra, Hon Chari Bersamin for making this Abra experience possible. I would also like to thank Ms Jinky Gavino of Agsimao, Tineg for coordinating the Agsimao adventures for our safety and security. To Elric Regulacion of VG-Office and the rest of the team, thank you for being with us. Agbiag ti Abra!

Abra #TownExploration Series

Map showing the Location of Abra

BELOW: LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA THAT YOU MIGHT LIKE

[BANGUED] ▬ WEARING APANGAT OF MAENG TRIBE (LEFT); ILLAUD TRIBE ACCESSORIES/FABRIC (RIGHT)

The padaya or trade fair is where the local products and produces of Abra are showcased. The foregoing is part of the Abrenio Kawayan Festival which happened March 6-9 this year (2015). The padaya was put up during the course of the festival inside the Abra Grandstand (or "oval" as called locally).

I thought it would be another ordinary trade fair but I was wrong. The padaya gave me many answers on my search for truth and knowledge: reasons why I love traveling. The following will feature what I've discovered in padaya with love.

Itneg Weaving and Accessories

In the padaya, I learned that the products displayed is not just for trade purposes; it is also an avenue for learning. I was able to wear a tribal head wear called apangat used by tribesmen (male) during social occasions or rituals of the Maeng tribe of Tubo, the southern tribe of Abra.

[BANGUED] ▬ LONG FOREARM BEAD STRAP USED IN RITUALS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS

My eyes feasted in joy and bliss when I learned that the batek (bead that make up an accessory) I was seeing is an authentic one. The reason is, I have this fascination for tangible evidence of old and lost culture or civilization. To note, each bead means a lot, according to Marvie, a direct descendant of an authentic Itneg weaver in Namarabar village of Peñarrubia. One bead can be equated to wealth, like it is equivalent to one cattle, one parcel of land or rice field. Marvie comes from the Illaud sub-tribe. They are the lowland Itnegs of Abra, apparently, all sub-tribes treat beads as a sign of wealth and glory.

Some beads are made of porcelain acquired through trading with the Chinese merchants back then. Some are precious stones. Some came from their immediate environment.

[BANGUED] ▬ AUTHENTIC BATEK INHERITED FROM THEIR ANCESTORS (THIS ITEM IS FOR SALE)

[BANGUED] ▬ DECADES-OLD ITNEG-WOVEN BAAG (ALSO FOR SALE)

Also from the Illaud tribe of Namarabar is decades-old (probably a century-old) authentically-woven baag with intricate embroidery and designs with beads of different elements of nature by which each has a significant meaning for them. Take for example, the sinan-tekka (gecko) or sinan-alutiit (lizard) embroidery which means "good luck" for them. And yes, everything you see on their baag has a significance which is essential in their cultural rituals. Since these are authentic products of their heritage, the price could raise everyone's eyebrows. The accessories shown here are playing from 3,000 to 5,000 pesos (or more, depends on the item). Some ritual fabrics play from 1,500 to 15,000 pesos.

If you are a collector of museum-worthy artifacts, these are already priceless. I was able to acquire one authentic baag (the last available of its kind, yes! I'm lucky)with malatayum natural dye (the weaving in Namarabar is the only weaving village in the Philippines that use natural dye from trees or plants available from their environment). Hurry up now that the original items are still sold. (Contact Marvie: 0926-916-9653). The weaving center is located in Namarabar, Peñarrubia town in Abra.

Traditional Wines

Abra, like its neighboring provinces, is a wine-making wonderland. Probably, the most popular of all its wines is the tapuy or rice wine. Tapuy is marketed as a one-town-one-product. Different packaging comes from each manufacturer.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE WINES OF ABRA

[BANGUED] ▬ FRUIT WINE (DUHAT)

The best tapuy I've ever tasted all my life is the one from Tubo town. It was home-made though, not for commercial purposes. However, the commercially-made have the same sting to look for. I also purchased one bottle of the duhat wine, the first time I purchased and tasted a wine of its kind.

Ballatinaw: Abra's Indigenous Rice Variety

From duhat wine to rice wine comes the indigenous rice variety of the province of Abra called ballatinaw, regarded as the "King of Rice" by Felicidad Bautista of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD).

[BANGUED] ▬ REGARDED AS THE 'KING OF RICE'

Ballatinaw is an indigenous rice variety of Abra, known for its excellent texture and aroma, unique reddish to blackish violet color and high eating quality.

Bamboo Products

Kawayan Festival, that is; a festival made into existence to promote the bamboo products of Abra. In the padaya, bamboo products abound. Name it: chair, table, furniture, sound amplifier, place mat, pamaypay, ash tray and hat they have them all.

[BANGUED] ▬ PAMAYPAY MADE FROM BAMBOO

[BANGUED] ▬ VERSATILE BAMBOO FURNITURE

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOO CRAFTS IN ARTISTIC PATTERNS

[BANGUED] ▬ 1. HATS, 2. PLACEMATS 3. MULTI-PURPOSE FURNITURE 4. SOUND AMPLIFIER

The padaya of Kawayan Festival features bamboo to be the jack-of-all-trades in the plant kingdom.

Corn Products

If you think I'm referring to that crunchy kernel we all love eating, it's time to expand the corn's territory. Imagine, bags, ropes and other stuff were created from corn husks. According to the creative hands who crafted these products, they collect corn husks from the farm after harvest and that would be for free since it is considerably a waste.

[BANGUED] ▬ FROM UPPER LEFT CLOCKWISE: BAG (DETAILS), ROPE, BAG (WHOLE), HOME DISPLAY

For the makers of these products, these are not wastes, and money is waiting to be unleashed after these husks transform into expensive handicrafts.

Product of a Living Cultural Treasure

The best thing I've ever encountered in this padaya is the gourd casque (kattukong nga tabungaw) by Teofilo Garcia. Garcia was declared by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as a "Living Cultural Treasure" in 2012 for being the last (if not one of the last) traditional artist of his generation to make such form of art to still survive.

[BANGUED] ▬ TEOFILO GARCIA AND HIS KATTUKONG NGA TABUNGAW

His product is regularly exhibited in different parts of the world. The National Living Treasures Award is the highest award given to traditional artists by the Philippine government. His product ranges from 1500 to 2500 pesos each.

Other Products

The things I've posted above are just pinch of what you could see and discover in Abra's padaya 2015. The following are some little additions.

[BANGUED] ▬ WILD HONEYS OF ABRA

[BANGUED] ▬ IGAT OR RIVER EEL

Other prominent product that is a mainstay in Abra padaya is the honey. The hinterlands of Abra are rich in honeys and expert honeybee hunters. From honeybee hunters come the igat hunters who dive in the great rivers of the province to see them. Igat is an exotic food from Abra. It is a river eel that is hunted at night.

Ending Thoughts

Learning is an integral part of growth. I never imagined that these products will come into their present form out of nowhere. Indeed, this is not just a simple display of OTOPs and local produces that can be bought by money. More than this, this is a display of knowledge, culture and heritage that money can not buy ▬ but can be experienced for free if you wish to.

But wait... I thought it's over. But more cultural experiences and encounters came. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ THE HISTORY OF WEAVING HERE IS INTERESTING AND MY THEORY WAS RIGHT.

ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

Who would have thought that today, their pasture became greener by keeping the inheritance manifested through their weaving skills. Hang on for Part 3.

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► FOOTNOTES, DISLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Ma. Lizbeth J. Baroña. "How about the King of Rice for dinner?."BAR Research and Development Digest. October-December 2003 

No Author Identified. "Ballatinaw: An indigenous rice variety."PCARRD Commodities. No Date Identified

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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA. MAP © EUGENE VILLAR — CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA.

CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA.

"Who would have thought that today, their pasture became greener by keeping the inheritance manifested through their weaving skills."

[LA PAZ, ABRA, PHILIPPINES]▬ The cultural immersion I am experiencing in Abra seemed to never stop. After checking out the local products of Abra in the padaya trade fair, I've learned interesting new things, one of them is the weaving industry of Abra. Colorful fabrics called abel were featured in the padaya. But the search for learning doesn't end there because we're going to visit a village known to be the source of these abel products.

[LA PAZ] ▬ ABEL WEAVER OF BULBULALA, LA PAZ, ABRA

is known to be the source of the woven fabric called abel Iloko like this one woven in Abra. On how abel weaving started in Bulbulala, La Paz is a very interesting story I've discovered as told by a descendant of the original abel weavers who introduced this art in Bulbulala.

However, aside from abel weaving, Abra also has its own distinct traditional weaving done by the Itneg tribes which is different from the Ilocano's abel in terms of design, concept and purpose. But for this post, I will focus on the abel done in Bulbulala.

En Route to Bulbulala

For first-time visitors to Bulbulala, reaching the place is quite a challenge. Although there are road signboards showing the direction to Brgy Bulbulala, you might still need the help of some people to find your directions so I would suggest to hire a tricycle driver who is knowledgeable of the place.

Asking directions from the right person is alright. But for our version of this trip, there was a twist. It was spiced with some unexpected adventures not normally done along the way.

[LA PAZ] ▬ UNEXPECTED ROAD OBSTACLE TO BULBULALA

We were lucky that someone drove us to Bulbulala. However, the road leading to the village was closed for construction. But we didn't give up the search for the village. We used another route instead which is twice farther than the regular route.

We passed through narrow farm-to-market roads and a river. Good thing the river was shallow so we decided to cross it in the name of traveling. We didn't expect that we'll be encountering this kind of situation along the way. We survived the route and reached the village by asking direction from people we met along the way.

Bulbulala: a Village of Loom Weavers

Knowing that we've reached the weaving village safely was a breath of fresh air. The village is situated in a hilly terrain. The locals provided much help in finding our way to the house of a certain Naty Quiday, the most popular household name in the village in terms of abel making.

[LA PAZ] ▬ FOOT WORKS IN WEAVING

[LA PAZ] ▬ ANOTHER LOOM WEAVER IN THE VILLAGE

[LA PAZ] ▬ THREADS OF VARIOUS COLORS

[LA PAZ] ▬ ORANGE THREAD

[LA PAZ] ▬ CAREFULLY EXAMINING THE THREAD

The contact person we were looking for wasn't around because according to one of her helpers, she often travels to showcase her craft to different trade fairs in the Philippines. According to some people we met, the weaving center we've just entered employs women from the community to meet the demands for the product. Leila's loom weaving is the name of the center and it is the largest in the village. However, there are also other households who do the pinagabel.

How Loom Weaving Started in Bulbulala? The Ilocos-Abra Connection

A man introduced himself to us as one of the owners of the loom weaving center. I can't exactly remember his name but he is very closely related to Naty Quiday. Ever since I've learned that there are also abel weavers (agab-abel) in Abra, I've been very curious how this old-age industry (pinagabel) started here. Upon knowing that their surname is "Quiday," a hypothesis suddenly popped out my mind on how the weaving started in the village so I have to ask the man to confirm if my theory is true.

[LA PAZ] ▬ SELFIE-ING WITH MR QUIDAY, A DESCENDANT OF THE ORIGINAL WEAVERS IN BULBULALA

My theory goes this way: In , one can tell where is your hometown (or the hometown of your ancestors at least) basing on the first letter of your surname. In Ilocos Sur, the original settlers of each town have surnames that start with the same letter. Like in the case of the town of , original settlers here have surnames starting with letter "P" (Paa, Patubo, Pala-Pala, Pardo, Parilla, Pe Benito, Paroligan, Palpallatoc, Palacpac, Paz, etc). The same with the municipality of wherein surnames start with letter "B" (Bagorio, Bello, Balatico, Balallo, Brillo, Bueno, Benavidez, Bielza, etc) and many more.

In the case of the town of , their surnames start with letter "Q" (Remember Pres. Elpidio Quirino? He's from Caoayan town.) and this town is known to be the home of the best and most numberof abel weavers in Ilocos Sur (sadly, the number of weavers is decreasing gradually now). Most weavers from Vigan actually live near Caoayan-Vigan boundary.

[LA PAZ] ▬ PARDON THE WATERMARK, THIS IS IN LA PAZ, NOT BANGUED

Basing on Mr Quiday's surname plus the weaving skills his family has, I was confident to tell him that he is not an original settler of Bulbulala and he must have come from Caoayan. The man smiled and confirmed that my theory is true. He told me that he has a lot of relatives in Caoayan and Vigan, the hometown of his grandparents who migrated in Abra in search for arable land for living. Carrying the bloodline and culture of abel weaving from Caoayan, they settled in Bulbulala and continued the learning they inherited from their Ilocano ancestors. Caoayan is one little coastal town at the mouth of Abra River.

During the old times, people sail via the Abra River to reach the province of Abra. For the ancestors of Mr Quiday, they've found a green pasture in Bulbulala but they did not forget the art they learned from their forefathers.

[LA PAZ] ▬ ABEL WEAVING IS NOW A LIVELIHOOD IN ABRA

Who would have thought that today, their pasture became greener by keeping the inheritance manifested through their weaving skills. It's not all about the arable land now. It's about the weaving.

Ending Thoughts: Preserving a Tradition

The tradition of pinagabel is on its glory days. The demand for this fabric is getting high as more people are getting aware of the existence of these textiles. Unlike other arts and crafts on the brink of extinction, the best is yet to come for abel Iloko.

[LA PAZ] ▬ WEAVING THE WHITE THREAD

[LA PAZ] ▬ INSIDE LEILA'S LOOM WEAVING

According to Mr Quiday, most of the weavers here [now] are migrants (usually women who married a man from Bulbulala). These female migrants learned this art in Bulbula for their living - some are already employed by the weaving center in the village. For these abel weavers, the life in weaving might be a bumpy road, but this road can still lead them to their destination - a place for success and prosperity.

We left Bulbulala satisfied. We witnessed the beautiful sunset on our way home and I'm excited to share to you where have I seen it. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ YOU'LL LOVE THIS SUNSET TOO.

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

Abra has no beach. This river serves as a summer getaway. The sunset here is unique. It represents Abra's distinct landscape. Hang on for Part 4.

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► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

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Map Showing the Location of #LaPaz

[BANGUED] ▬ THE RIVER REFLECTS THE SUNSET

As our service car passed through the kilometer-long Calaba Bridge in Bangued, the sky is inviting me to stop for a while, savor its beauty and listen to what my heart is saying.

Abra River Sunset in Calaba

The setting sun hovers over the mountain ranges while the river duplicates its beauty. Sky, mountain, river + sunset is so wonderful for me. My happiness is shallow, I know.

[BANGUED] ▬ SUNSET, MOUNTAIN, RIVER

[BANGUED] ▬ LIFE UNDER THE SUNSET

It is summer, yet the great river doesn't run out of water coming from the mountains. It was vast as the sunset - reminds me of my dreams that's so vast too. You see, sunset puts me into introspection.

[BANGUED] ▬ ONE HAPPY SWIMMER

[BANGUED] ▬ FLOATING HUTS ABOUND

Floating cottages abound. People swim in the river. Abra has no beach. This river serves as a summer getaway. The sunset here is unique. It represents Abra's distinct landscape.

Final Thoughts

In every sunset that I witness, there is peace. That's why I always post an article dedicated for the sunsets I witness in my travels. Beach sunset, mountain sunset - I have them on this blog.

I don't know, but I feel so peaceful whenever I see a sunset. I'm a person who prefers being poor yet with peace of mind than being rich with a lot of pressure and many things to think about. That's why I go for sunset. I choose peace.

Up Next

It was already dark when we reached downtown Bangued and what I witnessed was a parade of lights that defeated the darkness. Trumpets killed the silence. Sound and lights made the night so festive. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ THE NIGHT BECAME FESTIVE. IT WAS A GOOD NIGHT. WHAT IS THIS BY THE WAY?

ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

Although the stigma of Abra in the politics world is the source of its infamy, there will still be a light to enlighten the dark ages. What are these objects for? Hang on for Part 5.

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► FOOTNOTES, DISLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] Big thanks to Abra Vice Governor, Hon Chari Bersamin, for inviting us to witness the Kawayan Festival 2015. With me is Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com.

[2] The map I used below is courtesy of Eugene Villar on Wikipedia.
Source: 1 | 2

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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

"Although the stigma of Abra in the politics world is the source of its infamy, there will still be a light to enlighten the dark ages."

[BANGUED, ABRA, PHILIPPINES]▬ My experience in Abra last March (2015) upon gracing the invitation of Vice Governor Chari Bersamin has changed my perspective about the place and on how I view it as a province. I realized that the struggle this unassuming province is facing about its negative publicity, behind the mind-conditioning ability of mass media, is too much to bear.

[BANGUED] ▬ INNOCENT CHILDREN PLAYING AROUND A LIGHTED FLOAT

We entered the Abra Grandstand at night. Everything seems normal. I no longer feel the tension I used to feel when it was my first time to travel to Abra. You know, those times, the notoriety of Abra embedded on the face of pop culture was a concept I used to believe as a first time visitor. I used to be paranoid. When I started exploring the province from the valley to its hinterlands, my view changed.

This time, I am just overwhelmed to encounter new things once again. If this is a drug, I am intoxicated now. I just can't contain the overjoy. The people in Abra are gathered here, at night, to celebrate the beauty of their culture and heritage. All walks of life are present. The tribes from the mountains traveled down to the valley to be part of the celebration. There was peace and harmony. You see? The notoriety is too much for the province to deal with. The people here just want to live a normal life. Abra is a peace-loving community.

[BANGUED] ▬ POLICEMEN NOT AS PEACE KEEPERS, BUT AS MUSICIANS

[BANGUED] ▬ THESE TALENTED POLICEMEN GAVE A FESTIVE SOUND FOR SILNAG.

[BANGUED] ▬ ABRA'S POLICEMEN ARE TALENTED TOO.

Then I walked carefree in the grandstand locally called as 'oval.' I saw some policemen. Well, I thought they're here to function as peacekeepers. I was wrong. These officers of the law are here to play the trumpets and the drums.

Linger, I asked myself why the policemen have to do this. Until I saw the beautiful floats emitting adorable hues of light under the dark sky. That was the hint. So this is the "Silnag" event I saw on the schedule of activities for the Kawayan Festival 2015. There will be a parade at night. The policemen will play sounds to summon the spirit of peace with the music of unity.

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS FLOAT FEATURES THE CACAO, A LOCAL PRODUCT OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BUCAY

For this space of time, this event called Silnag is on its debut. For the very first time, floats from different towns of Abra were creatively crafted to grace the occasion.

I noticed the cacao float from the municipality of Bucay. This gave me an idea that Abra also produces cacao particularly the latter town. So clever. This has become a channel to promote their local industries and a fun medium for learning.

[BANGUED] ▬ DETAILS OF BUCAY'S CACAO FLOAT

[BANGUED] ▬ SO THIS IS TEAM DISKARTE'S WORK.

I also saw this float with a giant form of men (probably Itneg) dressed with tapis and baag who seem to be dancing their tadek. The woman mannequin spreads her upper limbs while the man is dancing with his gansa. The float is portraying a sacred rite of the tribesmen. The tribes of Abra dance tadek during special occasions and rituals. They don't do the dance for granted.

The makers of the float surely created it with love and pride. They showcased their beautiful traditions and way of living. It was just a float but it meant more for me. I've been exposed many times to the tribal villages and I've learned to understand their culture. My experience in their abode has taught me many lessons I've never learned in school so I've developed this mindset that the tribesmen are richer in many ways. That simple float you are seeing could teach you a hundred new interesting (at least on my part) lesson.

[BANGUED] ▬ TEAM DISKARTE AND TEAM CACAO

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOOS AND A HUGE MUSHROOM

[BANGUED] ▬ ABRA, BOLDLY WRITTEN

[BANGUED] ▬ SO WELL-LIGHTED

[BANGUED] ▬ CLOSER, BIGGER SMILE

The floats, products of the Abrenios' love and pride of their homeland, are exuding more positive things. As I aimlessly walk in the oval while seeing these products of craftsmanship, I know there is more to discover in Abra. I've let go of the political stigma. I've embraced the good vibes this province could offer.

[BANGUED] ▬ CHILDREN OF ABRA LOOKING AT THE FLOAT FEATURING BAMBOO GRASS

"Silnag" is just one of the events and features of the Kawayan Festival 2015. Silnag is an Ilocano word for "beam of light." This is a very timely event because I'm personally anticipating more good great things that will happen in Abra in the future in terms of tourism and economic development.

I know Abra will arise soon. It's just getting its momentum. Although the stigma of Abra in the politics world is the source of its infamy, there will still be a light to enlighten the dark ages.

After the Silnag event, I walked close to the gymnasium and I saw children wearing their traditional costumes. It feels great to see that the culture is passed to the new generation. But what are these children doing here? Why they are wearing these costumes? I am foreseeing a big cultural event that time because of the multitude of children and youth scattered around the oval with colorful and amazing traditional dresses.

In the province of Abra, there is a dark age in its political history, but light will still defeat darkness. Darkness will never prevail. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ WHY THESE CHILDREN ARE HERE FOR THE NIGHT?

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

I was surprised even more how rich the culture of Abra is. Very rich. Very unique. Their identity and culture make Abra a very interesting province to love and take care. What these children are doing here? Hang on for Part 6.

___________________________________________________

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] Big thanks to Abra Vice Governor, Hon Chari Bersamin, for inviting us to witness the Kawayan Festival 2015. With me is Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com

[2] The map I used below is courtesy of Eugene Villar on Wikipedia.
Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3APh_locator_map_abra.png
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ph_locator_abra_bangued.png

___________________________________________________

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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

"We played the same game. We sang the same song. We dreamed the same dream."

Not everything written on this blog is about leisure travel and adventures. I also tend to write personal things here about life. For me, life is also a travel, a journey. As I have mentioned in my old posts, this blog is a diary and I'm writing this now because I want to save memories. I want to pen down how and what I feel right now that a major event concerning my significant others and good old friends just happened. My cousin married our old friend.

[LEGAZPI] ▬ WITH MY COUSIN IN LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY

Time flies so fast. It seems like it was only yesterday when we were kids. My cousin Honey, me, and Toots (her husband now) are kids who grew up in our local church. When we were young, no one of us ever thought that these two will become a couple. You see? Destiny is unpredictable.

My cousin Honey is my kababata. Since we only have 1 year as age gap, we grew up together as kids. We went in the same school. We played the same game. We sang the same song. We dreamed the same dream. So we studied hard even though we are both less in life because we knew how it feels to become a poor kid. Education for both of us is very important because we are both the eldest kids in our families and we felt the need to succeed in order to help our families.

I know her personality. I know if she has a problem. I know if she is happy. And whenever I see her feeling worried or sad, it breaks my heart. Our relationship is so close that since childhood, we only had one serious quarrel. As far as I remember, it only lasted for 2 days. It was my cousin who first approached me then the quarrel is over. After that, no more serious misunderstanding came.

In the church, we have this little boy named Toots. His older sisters are actually our close friends with my cousin. Toots just seemed to be an ordinary boy back then. He is the youngest of 10 children. We knew him but he wasn't a part of our circle of friends by which her two sisters belonged. Until we entered the music team of our local church. We became adults. Yes, we grew up in the music ministry. We played the guitar, the keyboard, the drums and we sang too with live band. From there, the rest was history.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WITH TOOTS IN BAGUIO CITY

We consider Toots as an old friend. But never in my imagination that they will end up in marriage. Love really moves in mysterious ways and I think God was the reason for everything because He was writing their love story.

Few days before the wedding, my cousin slept in my room. That was the last time she slept in my room as single. We are so much close that each of us knows where our stretchmarks are located. But there is nothing permanent in this world. It will never be the same again because she'll soon get married. This is the reality. It's mixed emotions. But I am happy because I never felt this fear when I learned that she is marrying Toots. I know she'll be in good hands.

[VIGAN] ▬ JUST MARRIED!

[VIGAN] ▬ CALLE CRISOLOGO

I saw how my cousin changed when she had a relationship with Toots. That weak girl became mature and I thank God for being the best matchmaker.

Well, I was encouraged to write this post when Michelle, Toot's sister (who happens to be one of my closest friends) posted a comment on facebook saying, "My brother married my best friend." This line I think is full of beautiful meanings and memories. How I wish I owned the line.

Maybe this is just a separation anxiety. That feeling when you know it will never be the same old time again. You know you already have the limitations because my cousin is Toot's personal property now (haha!). However, I am very glad that we enjoyed our time together as cousins. So I have no regrets. We cried together. We laughed together. We dreamed together of traveling the world someday. However, this is the reality God has designed. And I know somewhere in my heart, it will still exude the old memories.

I can't actually express myself how happy I am for both of them. So I am writing this now to unload the emotions. I really thank the Lord big time for giving the forever. Toots and Honey will be united as one forever. But no one is a loser. God also made it sure that Honey and I will always be my cousins forever! No matter what! ▬ end

[OLONGAPO] ▬ THE HONEYMOON: HOT COUPLE RIGHT?

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

___________________________________________________

Honey Lynn Antiporda and Toots Atinaja (real name is a secret, LOL) tied the knot on 08 My 2015. Congratulations to both of you! Best wishes! Thanks to Rhea Atinaja and to the newly wed couple for some of the photos I borrowed here.

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Map showing the Location of [N/A]

YOU MIGHT LIKE: RECENTLY UPDATED ENTRIES

[BANGUED] ▬ KIDS WEARING TINGUIAN TRADITIONAL COSTUME

Prior to the start of the cultural night I observed what's going on around. I am seeing many Tinguian people representing proudly their sub-tribes. I know how hard to reach some of their villages but they're all here with one purpose - to showcase their beautiful culture and heritage.

Armed with dances and rites they inherited from their ancestors, I know this will penetrate my soul. I don't want to appear OA but whenever I see cultural rites and dances depicting the identity of the people, I have this tendency to cry because I treat traditional dances as a pure form of love of the people's culture and heritage whenever they do it.

[BANGUED] ▬ SOUVENIR PHOTO OUTSIDE THE GYMNASIUM PRIOR TO THE START OF THE SHOW

I took the opportunity to see the cultural dancers up close. They all looked beautiful. They have this batek placed on their heads. Some male performers are wearing the baag too. There are also Ilocano performers. You know, Abra is the land where both the Ilocanos and Itneg tribes live in harmony.

[BANGUED] ▬ A YOUNG GENERATION OF THE BEAUTIFUL ITNEG PEOPLE

I photographed them after asking permission. The female Itneg young people all looked beautiful with their costumes. I was somehow happy to see that the culture continues to be practiced by them. Kawayan Festival has become a medium to showcase this for the world to know.

I went inside the gymnasium and waited for the show. The first performers came. I thought it would just be an ordinary cultural show. It was extraordinary! How come I underestimated this? Shame on me!

The lights on the stage set the house on fire. Lively. Colorful. State-of-the-art production was revealed by the lights and sounds I was witnessing that time.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE START EVEN GAVE ME GOOSEBUMPS

[BANGUED] ▬ REPRESENTING THE ITNEG CULTURE

[BANGUED] ▬ REPRESENTING THE ILOCANO CULTURE

[BANGUED] ▬ INDUSTRIOUS ILOCANOS ILLUSTRATED THROUGH DANCE

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS IS THE SAKUTING RITE FROM DOLORES TOWN

[BANGUED] ▬ SAKUTING DANCE ILLUSTRATES THE WAR OF FAITH BETWEEN THE ILOCANO AND ITNEG PEOPLE IN ABRA. THE TWO GROUPS OF PEOPLE EVENTUALLY ACHIEVED UNITY WHEN THE TRIBES WERE CHRISTIANIZED.

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS GROUP PERFORMS ILOCANO CULTURAL DANCE.

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS GROUP MADE THE STAGE COLORFUL.

[BANGUED] ▬ AN ILOCANO COURTSHIP DANCE

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS GROUP USED PROPS VERY WELL

[BANGUED] ▬ A TINGUIAN COURTING AN ILOCANA

[BANGUED] ▬ LIFE IN THE FARM SHOWN IN ART

[BANGUED] ▬ PERFORMERS FROM BUCAY TOWN

[BANGUED] ▬ TINGUIAN DANCE MOVES

[BANGUED] ▬ A TRIBAL RITE

[BANGUED] ▬ TINGUIAN FEMALE DANCERS CARRYING EARTHEN JARS

[BANGUED] ▬ GRACEFUL MOVES

[BANGUED] ▬ THEY DANCED WELL WITH THE JARS

There are many groups who performed. Some came from Abra's far-flung municipalities. There are courtship dance, sakuting dance, tribal rite and dance in asking rain from the gods and many more.

I was surprised even more how rich the culture of Abra is. Very rich. Very unique. Their identity and culture make Abra a very interesting province to love and take care. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ WE WOKE UP VERY EARLY FOR THIS. WHAT'S THIS?

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

We woke up early because we heard that there is an interesting place in town that closes early too on the same day. So what we did here? Hang on for Part 7.

___________________________________________________

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This experience was made possible through Vice Governor Chari Bersamin who invited us to witness the Abra Kawayan Festival. With me is fellow travel blogger Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com.

[2] The map I used below is courtesy of Eugene Villar on Wikipedia.

Source:
[1] https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3APh_locator_map_abra.png
[2] https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ph_locator_abra_bangued.png
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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

"I observed how they prepare this popular soup dish. They just prepare everything right before your eyes. I saw bones, mainly skulls, in a stainless basin."

[BANGUED, ABRA, PHILIPPINES]▬ Our host said we have to wake up early to be able to experience what this soup dish found in Brgy Patucannay has to offer the best way. I already have an idea what is this. But somehow, the feeling is different whenever I experience it in Abra.

[BANGUED] ▬ STEAM COMING OUT FROM THE HOT SOUP

With the determination to wake-up early, I set my alarm, took a deep breathe then allowed my body to sleep. I should have become more nocturnal a li'l bit but yeah, I'll be in Patucannay tomorrow so I have to be an early bird. Uh, thanks conscience. You are a great driving force made by God, not science. At least my conscience has to remind me that I can ruin the whole day if I have to let others wait for me.

Anyway, challenge accepted. You know, if you are a social media type of guy or the cool-er blogger type, you'll love to take advantage of the faster internet connection later at night when this bunch of some freakin' high school facebook users posting crying selfies of not being able to buy ticket for One Direction concert are asleep! Deymn! Imagine? You have to sacrifice for them just to get rid of these young freakin' facebook generation? That's just my idea anyway. Let's go back to Patucannay.

[BANGUED] ▬ GOOD MORNING ABRA VALLEY!!!

Then the next day came. "Good morning Abra!", my conscience squealed. I made it. The magnificent view of Mt Bullagao triggered these neurochemicals to give me that excitement and the rush. The view from the hotel terrace was really an effective stimulus to make me sing the high school rhyme/song, "I'm alert, awake, alive, enthusiastic (repeat 2x). I'm alert, awake, alive (repeat 3x) enthusiastic"! Pak!

Suddenly, the service car is there. We're ready to go to Patucannay!

[BANGUED] ▬ HOW THEY PREPARE THIS SOUP DISH

We reached Patucannay still hearing some cocks crowing. Our guide-hosts asked where is that house serving that soup dish. Then we saw a house.

"So, a house?" I said to myself. It seemed like there are no restaurants here, let alone a carinderia. But this house went out of the norm. You do not need a fancy restaurant if you got that kick-ass recipe. Confirmed. This house is the Baldera's pansitan.

In Abra, they have this soup dish they call as pansit or miki. In Patucannay, Baldera's pansitan is the house to find. As early as 6 AM, people are here. Maybe this house offers the best miki in town.

[BANGUED] ▬ SWINE SKULL, COULD ALSO BE CATTLE'S

I observed how they prepare this popular soup dish. They just prepare everything right before your eyes. I saw bones, mainly skulls, in a stainless basin. They boil this to extract those tasteful bone marrows. The water becomes a part of the soup.

Usually, the most common ingredients for this miki are the noodles (usually home-made, made of flour) and pork. Egg is an option. It can be boiled, or just mixed in the soup.

[BANGUED] ▬ MIKI NOODLES

[BANGUED] ▬ PORK

[BANGUED] ▬ WITH THE EGG

[BANGUED] ▬ LEFT: MIKI WITHOUT SOUP, RIGHT: MIKI WITH SOUP

[BANGUED] ▬ CHILLY ADD-ON

[BANGUED] ▬ MIKI NOODLE SOUP IS READY TO EAT

[BANGUED] ▬ MIKI EATERS QUEUEING

Atchuete is the reason for the color of the soup. It's not miki anymore without the identifying color. I can't remember the cost of one big bowl. But usually, it ranges from 30-60 pesos depending on the ingredients and the size of the serving.

The reason why we have to come here early is because they run out of supply fast. So at noon, the miki house is already closed because of these great number of miki eaters that come here.

This was as good as breakfast. Now we have the energy to continue for the next activities of the day. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ TAKING SELFIE BEFORE THE START OF THE GREAT CULTURAL ACTIVITY.

[UP NEXT] ▬ I TOOK A SELFIE NOW THAT THE STREET IS STILL EMPTY.

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

With a tummy solved and a body energized, we went straight to the provincial capitol of Abra. The street is still empty so I took a selfie because later on, this place will be crowded. What will happen here? Hang on for Part 8.

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► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This experience was made possible through Vice Governor Chari Bersamin who invited us to witness the Abra Kawayan Festival. With me is fellow travel blogger Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com.

[2] The maps I used below are the works of Mike Gonzalez and Eugene Alvin Villar on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA. MAP © EUGENE VILLAR MAP © MIKE GONZALEZ — CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ABRA.

"No million-dollar dance show can ever fathom the depth of the meaning of the dances their ancestors wanted them to execute."

[BANGUED, ABRA, PHILIPPINES]▬ That great day in Abra came. There was no Hollywood star, no pop icon, no charismatic political figure, no teen superstar but there are simple people. They wrapped themselves with the glory of their heritage, looked good. They wore their best smile. Their colorful clothes shone with greatness. The greatness turns to fire. The fire turns to clarity. The spirit of peace is manifesting. The simple people became timeless treasures themselves!

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS ITNEG TRIBE CARRIES WITH THEM THE KAWAYAN OR BAMBOO

No chart-topping hit song can ever parallel the timelessness of their traditional music. No million-dollar dance show can ever fathom the depth of the meaning of the dances their ancestors wanted them to execute. This day is simply ethereal, divine. This is the province of Abra. Welcome to the cultural paradise!

Although this festival is a big picture of the rich culture of the province of Abra, the creators of this festival made it sure that at least one product shall receive the attention that it deserves. It is the bamboo(kawayan in Ilocano) which gained the prime spot.

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOO IS A STAR IN THE POOL OF LOCAL PRODUCTS IN ABRA.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE TRIBE'S MARCHING IN.

The people of Abra have come up with many products made from bamboo. The resiliency of this tall grass reflects the resiliency of the people of Abra too. In spite of the hardships in life some of our brethren in Abra are experiencing, they still survive without sacrificing the values their ancestor taught them. They used bamboo, a natural resource linked to their culture, for them to survive, to create music and to build a community. These bamboos are not simply about the local products that some businessmen are marketing for profit. Bamboo is one big plant that has helped mold the culture of the people.

For the Kawayan Festival, street dancers have with them these bamboos while they dance and sing from the heart. With them are bamboo products that speak deep to the soul. The geometric patterns on their woven baskets made of thin and floppy bamboo sticks signify that their inherent artistry is so alive.

[BANGUED] ▬ THESE STREET DANCERS SMILE FROM THE HEART.

[BANGUED] ▬ HUGE BAMBOOS

[BANGUED] ▬ THE BAMBOO PROPS ARE JUST LOVELY.

[BANGUED] ▬ FORMATION IN FRONT OF THE CAPITOL

[BANGUED] ▬ AND YES, THEY CAN DANCE.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE HUT COMES.

[BANGUED] ▬ PULLING THE HUT

But not everything is bamboo here. If the creators of the festival made it sure to highlight their bamboo products, the universe conspired to equally highlight the culture and heritage that define who they are.

I observed keenly from the heart and I noticed that every move that they make is a passion. It seems like they're not just doing it for a show. I feel like they are doing this because they are obligated to preserve the good traditions that they can be proud of.

From the mountains to the valley, there's an inheritance that can't be touched. However, this inheritance can touch your heart. You can't see it but your can feel it.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE MOVES THEY MAKE IS AN INHERITANCE.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE CHEERFUL HEART EXPRESSED IN HUGE SMILE

[BANGUED] ▬ RAISING THE BIGA-O MADE OF BAMBOO

[BANGUED] ▬ NO HOT WEATHER WAS ABLE TO STOP THEM.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE STREET NEVER BECAME DULL.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE ABRENIAN SMILE!

[BANGUED] ▬ IN FRONT OF THE ABRA CAPITOL IS A VISUAL FEAST OF ARTS.

[BANGUED] ▬ ANOTHER CULTURAL TROUPE RAISING THE BIGA-O AS PROPS

[BANGUED] ▬ LABBA CONTAINING A FABRIC WOVEN IN ABRA

[BANGUED] ▬ THE FESTIVAL FEET

[BANGUED] ▬ FESTIVAL GIRL

[BANGUED] ▬ THE TRIBES ARE COMING.

Kawayan Festival happens on the foundation day of Abra as an independent Philippine province.

The festival features the culture and heritage of every town including the Ilocano people who co-exist with the Itneg tribes. Expect that there is no common dance steps and traditional sounds playing on the street. In fact, it is very diverse. You'll see that each town has an identity to share. Indeed, in Abra, there's unity in diversity.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE SAKUTING DANCERS OF DOLORES TOWN

[BANGUED] ▬ A GIRL FROM THE SAKUTING DANCERS

[BANGUED] ▬ DOLORES IS KNOWN FOR THE SAKUTING DANCE.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE ILOCANOS ARRIVE!

[BANGUED] ▬ THE ILOCANO DANCES HAVE SPACE IN THIS FESTIVAL, IN FACT, HUGE.

After a fulfilling experience, Elric, a friend from Abra and I went straight to the Abra grandstand where the grandest show will happen.

[BANGUED] ▬ SELFIEING WHILE ON THE ROAD TO THE GRANDSTAND

[BANGUED] ▬ GROUFIEING WITH FESTIVAL DANCERS FROM LANGIDEN TOWN

[BANGUED] ▬ THEY'RE HERE FOR THE FINAL GRAND SHOW.

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS IS THE ABRENIAN CHARM.

After the street dancing, all the festival delegates went to the Abra grandstand for the final showdown. It was more like a field demonstration which is as impressive as the street pageantry.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE FIELD DEMONSTRATION

All ended up in the Abra grandstand. They gave their best shot. The grandstand became a kingdom of life, love and unity. ▬ to be continued...

[UP NEXT] ▬ THIS IS THE FESTIVAL FINALE. WHAT'S THIS?

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

This long series is almost done. So do you want to see the colors of the festival finale? Hang on for Part 9.

___________________________________________________

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

This experience was made possible through Vice Governor Chari Bersamin who invited us to witness the Abra Kawayan Festival. With me is fellow travel blogger Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com.
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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

"They have proven that the province of Abra is a sterling destination for mountain culture lovers."

[BANGUED, ABRA, PHILIPPINES]▬ This series is very long. This is the 9th and the last installment. I think I've already poured out all the words from my heart since Part 1. I don't know what to say now. I think I've said everything I want to say. I think. But yeah, still, this is Abra. Its great surprises have actually put many words in my mind. That maybe the reason why this experience last March ended with 9 long articles. Without such surprises, it would definitely be hard to squeeze out the creative juice.

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOO FLOAT PARADE IS THE FINALE EVENT FOR THE KAWAYAN FESTIVAL 2015.

Today's highlight is the parade of Bamboo floats. The towns in Abra participated in the event. Some towns joined together to create just 1 float while some towns have their own float each.

I was in front of the Abra Capitol. It was the hottest part of the area because it has no shade. The sunlight directly scorched my skin. The sunblock lotion wasn't enough. You know, no one ever dared to stay where I was staying because of the direct sunlight. But I endured it. Anyway, I knew I was at the best spot to take photos.

[BANGUED] ▬ FLOAT OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LAGAYAN

The float from the municipality of Lagayan had its turn. Standing on the bamboo float are river fishermen showing proudly their catch—palileng and igat. Like the other towns in Abra, Lagayan is rich in water wonders and resources. Its rivers abound with fish they call as palileng and an eel they call as igat. So this is what the town of Lagayan showcased in their float.

[BANGUED] ▬ FLOAT OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BUCLOC

[BANGUED] ▬ CULTURAL DANCERS FOLLOWED THE BUCLOC FLOAT.

[BANGUED] ▬ BUCLOC TOWN BROUGHT ITS YOUNGEST CULTURAL STREET DANCERS.

[BANGUED] ▬ YOUNG TRIBESMEN DOING THE RITUAL DANCE WITH THEIR GONGS

[BANGUED] ▬ THEY ARE THE PUBLIC SERVANTS OF BUCLOC.

[BANGUED] ▬ THEY ARE PERFORMING THEIR TRADITIONAL DANCE TOO.

The town of Bucloc, inhabited by the Masadiit sub-tribe, gave their best in this parade. Their float was followed by the dancing tribe which made their presence stellar. The public servants of the town also joined the parade. They wore pink clothes and they executed their traditional dance as they pass in front of the Abra Capitol.

[BANGUED] ▬ FLOAT OF THE TOWNS OF SALLAPADAN AND DAGUIOMAN

[BANGUED] ▬ SIDE VIEW OF THEIR FLOAT

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOO PRODUCTS AT THE BACK OF THEIR FLOAT

The towns of Sallapadan and Daguioman are adjacent to each other. The two towns joined together for this float.

The three towns at the west part of the province of Abra namely San Isidro, Villaviciosa and Pilar also have a common float.

[BANGUED] ▬ PILAQUIN: PIDIGAN, LANGIDEN AND SAN QUINTIN TOWNS

[BANGUED] ▬ PILAQUIN FLOAT WITH A WOMAN HANDLING A BOLO

[BANGUED] ▬ BACK OF THE PILAQUIN FLOAT

The float of PILAQUIN shows bravery. A woman handles a bolo. At the back of the float is the name of a heroine. Pidigan townsfolk claim that Gabriela Silang is from their town. Gabriela is a revolutionary hero who fought for freedom in colonial times.

[BANGUED] ▬ MUSLIM BRETHREN

[BANGUED] ▬ MUSLIM COMMUNITY OF ABRA

This day is not all about the bamboo floats. It also showed how Abra maintains harmony among the different cultures. When I saw these Muslim brethren, my heart melted. I did not expect that there is an organized community of Muslims in Abra. I thought that Abra only has the Ilocanos (mostly Christians) and the Itneg tribes. I was wrong. The Muslim minority live with the Ilocanos and the Itneg people with peace and harmony.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE FLOAT OF THE TOWNS OF LUBA AND TUBO

[BANGUED] ▬ SIDE VIEW OF THE FLOAT

[BANGUED] ▬ FEATURING THE TAGPAO FALLS FOUND IN THE HINTERLANDS OF TUBO

The two southern towns of Tubo and Luba also had their share. Their float featured the Tagpao Falls, probably one of the highest in Abra (I've been to this waterfall and it required us to hike at least 8 mountains/ridges for 3 days and 2 nights to reach it).

[BANGUED] ▬ THE FLOAT OF THE TOWNS OF LACUB AND MALIBCONG

[BANGUED] ▬ THE CHILDREN OF LACUB/MALIBCONG ON BOARD A FLOAT

[BANGUED] ▬ BACK OF LACUB/MALIBCONG'S FLOAT

Lacub and Malibcong are tribal towns. The latter is an ancestral domain of three tribes: Mabaka, Gubang and Banao while the former is inhabited mostly by the Binongan tribe.

Check out more photos below.

[BANGUED] ▬ THE FLOAT OF SAN JUAN TOWN

[BANGUED] ▬ THIS ONE IS FROM LA PAZ.

[BANGUED] ▬ FROM THE TOWN OF LA PAZ

[BANGUED] ▬ TINEG'S FLOAT FEATURES THE ENDANGERED AND EXPENSIVE LUDONG FISH.

[BANGUED] ▬ FROM THE TOWN OF BOLINEY

[BANGUED] ▬ BOLINEY'S COWBOY

[BANGUED] ▬ LICUAN-BAAY TOWN'S PIECE

[BANGUED] ▬ AS USUAL, DOLORES TOWN FEATURES THEIR SAKUTING FESTIVAL.

[BANGUED] ▬ SAKUTING DANCERS ON THE FLOAT

[BANGUED] ▬ SAKUTING DANCE STREET DEMO

My personal favorite here is the float from Dolores. Their bamboo float spewed smoke adding drama to their piece. The float also swayed like wave while the tribesmen do their dance rituals.

I intended to flood this post with photos because I want to show everyone the efforts made by each participant in giving us the idea what these Abra towns have to offer through the floats they made.

Each town did a great job. They have proven that the province of Abra is a sterling destination for mountain culture lovers. ▬ end of series

[END] ▬ THANK YOU ABRA FOR THIS WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE!

► ABRA MARCH 2015 TRAVEL SERIES

This is the end of the series. To all who followed this, my big gratitude. I hope you will follow again my next blog series. I have more to come.

___________________________________________________

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This experience was made possible through Vice Governor Chari Bersamin who invited us to witness the Abra Kawayan Festival. With me is fellow travel blogger Estan Cabigas of langyaw.com.

[2] The map I used below is courtesy of Eugene Villar on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

[3] Erratum: Pardon the photo watermarks. All photos here were taken on 08 March 2015.
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Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

[BAGUIO] ▬ CAUGHT IN ACTION: THE AMAZING RACE HAS STARTED.

▬ The Baguio Amazing Race Experience ▬

WELL, I THOUGHT BAGUIO WOULD ALWAYS BE the same, like, yeah, that charming cool city with a lot of stressful things that will come your way. The same things to do. The same places to go + the crowd, traffic and air pollution.

With this Amazing Race for bloggers I joined organized by Azalea Residences, I swear I was wrong. I started to appreciate Baguio even more than the first time I saw the city. I realized I haven't explored Baguio that much. The admiration I felt was the result of the stories behind these places I visited. It's more than the pine trees, the chill and its timeless tourist attractions. I started to get hooked with its history.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE ASSEMBLY HAPPENED IN MELVIN JONES GRAND STAND.

[BAGUIO] ▬ AMAZING RACE BY AZALEA BAGUIO

[BAGUIO] ▬ MY TEAMMATES: CAROL, CHELLE, JEMAN, THERESE

We called ourselves the #TeamAzaleaBloggers. Not so creative though but thanks to hash tag for creating the trendy appeal. The instructions of the game were revealed in Melvin Jones grand stand and we were divided into 5 groups with 4-5 members each.

We received pieces of white paper where the clue is written. We have to figure out what those descriptions are telling and once we learn about it, we have to visit the place and take a groufie. Fun right?

Our first stop is the Burnham Lake as described by the clue to have swans all around—definitely it was. Then we have to look for this park described as a place where such flower festival starts. We weren't sure about it so what we did is to take a groufie to all the parks we saw along the way. Anyway, we found out later that the right place is Panagbenga Park.

Then it's time to visit the pink structure on a hill. Of course it was, after all, the Baguio Cathedral. This consumed our time. We used the long stair leading you up to the hill (Mt Mary). In fact, we could have just walked to the main entrance and have our photos taken from the road and make everything easy but we were tricked by the stair we saw along the way thinking it was the easiest access.

[BAGUIO] ▬ CLIMBING THIS STAIR WITH HUNDREDS OF STEPS WASN'T EASY.

[BAGUIO] ▬ CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY OF ATONEMENT

[BAGUIO] ▬ THIS CATHEDRAL IS AN ICONIC LANDMARK IN THE CITY.

Tired and breathing deep and fast, we reached Baguio cathedral right on top of the hill. It is here where we asked random people on how to go to our next stop. Some were helpful, some weren't.

With a limited fixed budget given by the organizers, we have to visit all the places described in our list. Riding a jeep to cut the expenses was never an option because it will consume much of our time.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WE'RE ASKING FOR DIRECTIONS.

[BAGUIO] ▬ SO WE HIRED A CAB.

[BAGUIO] ▬ I WAS SEATING BESIDE THE DRIVER.

So the idea of hiring a cab popped out from nowhere. We were able to haggle down the price from the original 300/hour rate. The driver was the one who arranged the itinerary to make it faster. But what happened next was alarming...

[BAGUIO] ▬ WHOAH! THE TRAFFIC JAM!.

And the traffic jam consumed much of our time. We are heading to Mines View Park by the way to get a picture wearing the Igorot dress.

We spent about 1 hour just queuing our way to the park. We wanted to just walk to make it faster but we were thinking of our cab, like, how's the deal and on where to see it after we reach our destination since it can't stay in one place. The cab also needs to move. For convenience sake, we chose to queue. So ironic.

[BAGUIO] ▬ TSK! WE'RE TRAPPED.

Anyway, to ease the pressure we are feeling then, we were rationalizing that this thing is also happening to the other groups—that they're stuck in the middle of the traffic jam and we were really hoping it is happening to them. Bad panda.

Eventually we reached Mines View Park.

[BAGUIO] ▬ ON OUR WAY TO THE COSTUME PICTORIAL.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WE MADE IT!

[BAGUIO] ▬ NOW THE OBLIGATORY GROUFIE WHILE WEARING THE COSTUME. (PHOTO FROM ORANGEMAGAZINE.PH)

[BAGUIO] ▬ RIDING A PINK PONY IS ONE OF OUR ASSIGNMENTS.

We're down to our next assignment—take groufie with the pink ponies of Wright Park. We have to walk just before we reach the destination to defy the traffic jam.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE PINK PONIES OF WRIGHT PARK: I DON'T HAVE THE GROUFIE WITH ME THOUGH.

So we had a groufie with the pink ponies in Wright Park. Our next destination is the Botanical Garden where we have to take a groufie with the Igorots there.

[BAGUIO] ▬ RACING TO THE BOTANICAL GARDEN.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE IGOROTS OF BOTANICAL GARDEN.

After surviving the traffic jam and all those chasing of ponies and Igorots for a groufie, we also need to visit The Mansion until we finally reached Panagbenga Park.

We had a quick time there as we needed to be quick to reach our next destination: the Lourdes grotto and the abandoned allegedly haunted Diplomat Hotel.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE PANAGBENGA PARK WE ALMOST MISSED.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WE'RE RUSHING BACK TO THE CAB.

On our way to Lourdes grotto, the other group is already posting photos on social media that they're already done. But we were still rationalizing that they did not finish all the places thereby disqualifying them for the win. Yes, that's our thinking. We thought that they are just posting those to take down our fighting spirit and discourage us. For us, the race must go on.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WE REACHED LOURDES GROTTO WITH HIGH HOPES.

[BAGUIO] ▬ LOURDES GROTTO

Finally we reached the Lourdes grotto and we're still fighting to win this time. However, it was already confirmed that the other group has finished.

Well, we continued the race and still we completed the places on the list and just enjoyed the day.

[BAGUIO] ▬ DIPLOMAT HOTEL

Our last stop is the Diplomat Hotel in the Dominican Hill. It was very nice though to see this piece of history. We finished the race fulfilled.

We went back to our base (Azalea Residences) and we were welcomed with great food. We were so tired but it was a great experience we will never get tired of reminiscing.

[BAGUIO] ▬ ONE OF THE DISHES SERVED AFTER THE RACE

[BAGUIO] ▬ OUR TEAM LEADER, JEMAN, REPORTING ABOUT OUR GROUP

[BAGUIO] ▬ #TEAM|AZALEA|BLOGGERS

We landed on third place. Applause! We all believed that our price was better than the winner though. So, no regrets.

▬ Conclusion ▬

WHAT A GREAT WAY TO EXPLORE BAGUIO! Some of the places we've visited are my first time to see. I learned how diverse and historical Baguio is. We've explored the city under time pressure yet we were awed by these destinations that are truly timeless.

I think I've loved Baguio more. The experience was just memorable. ▬ to be continued...

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOG SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ IT WAS A GOOD NIGHT, BACK TO THE 90'S!

► BLOG SERIES: AZALEA SUMMER GETAWAY

Up Next: It was a spring in the desert. The boredom of the night fled away. The music of the 90's was the real music we missed. 90's kids celebrate! This is night life without getting nasty, drunk and high—clubbing the wholesome way with the nostalgia of 90's vibe, some great food and a little bit of beer without getting wasted which is exactly what I love and advocate.

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Experiences." This category is a collection of stories about the new experiences and encounters while I'm on travel. To see more posts from this category, scroll down and check the "More Posts..." section below.

[2] This experience was made possible through Azalea Residences Hotel in Baguio City. I was invited to experience the Azalea hospitality.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Baguio

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING BENGUET. Map © Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez — CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING BENGUET.

MORE TOWNS IN 'CORDILLERA' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[BAGUIO] ▬ 2600 GASTROPUB, MAKE YOUR NIGHT IN BAGUIO GASTRONOMICALLY FUN

▬ My View of Night Life You Might Not Like, Sorry ▬

WELL, I AIN'T REALLY INTO THE NIGHT life that everyone is thinking. I am referring to clubbing, partying, drinking alcohol and other stuff I don't want to mention while doing it inside a public space shared with strangers. But I can be with the trend if you wish. Conflating with the trend is easy for me though I contemplate prior the doing. It's just that I am not comfortable exposing myself to clubs or night disco houses while being one with the party culture. I'm not saying I don't want to enter in clubs, I would want to. It's not just the kind of thing that I comfortably want.

If getting rid of night clubs is a form of stupidity and being uncool as you may want to call it, ok, close the case 'cause I'm a piece of the uncool. I have a different definition of being badass cool anyway.

In fairness, 2600 Gastropub has an emphasis on food so it's a safe place for nightout goers who do not focus on partying.

▬ I wasn't Pressured in 2600 ▬

I PUT MY LONG-SLEEVED TOP ON. I wanted to appear decent. This is a dinner anyway. Great thing I managed to pack something casually smart clothes in my backpack of above-the-knee shorts and mostly tank tops. Heck, carrying a heavy backpack during travel is so uncool. The vertebrae will surely cry out for help. Boy Scout skills worked out this time.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THAT'S WHAT I WORE. THIS IS A GROUFIE WITH MY AMAZING RACE TEAMMATES.

Honestly, I already had an idea that the place I am going is an assemblage of night party people. My instinct that time told me to get rid of the backpacker get up 'cause being too much different from the rest can be crazy even though you find being be-yourself-don't-care-others-say to be cool. It was my choice to look like that anyway.

I wanted to stand-out (if not to merely just blend) at least if circumstances warrant. I would like to mention that competing with others' dress to impress is not my kind of thing. My words are be decent and look respectable and you will go admired for that—basically that's how I think and see things.

[BAGUIO] ▬ FELLOW BLOGGER JUSTINE'S GET UP IN THE HOUSE: HE BLOGS ON FASHION

As I said, I would love entering night clubs—it's not just comfortable for me due to some personal reasons and advocacies.

I can be with the party people. I know the drill. I know the slangs. I know the heart of the party and I can even appear as party ace.

[BAGUIO] ▬ LIKE A VIP, OUR GROUP HAS A RESERVED SECTION. JEMAN, ENTERTAINMENT BLOGGER, HOLDS IT RIGHT.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE BLOGGERS ARE IN THE HOUSE.

Anyway, no pressure on my part this time. It was good to know that several tables near the jock's lair were reserved for the very important guests, I'm included.

However, I cannot deny the fact that at the other tables, hardcores will be hardcores. I saw these party people losing themselves as the in-house air is already mixing with white smoke—from cigar most probably.

I even wanted to allege that at the other table, someone's smoking pot. But I wasn't sure if it really was but damn golden bong producing thick white smoke! WTF is for? All I know is that THC and nicotine don't spell out their names but they somehow give a clue based on the accessories. How I wish that thick white smoke coming from a man who inhaled from a bong was just a magic trick. Yeah, like magic show inside a club? Ok, this is a party house anyway. Don't expect priests coming to give a sermon.

[BAGUIO] ▬ JUICE, CAPPUCCINO FROTHY, SODA OR BEER?

Back to my immediate world, everything went silky smooth. No hard drinks with the popular street label was served; only to find out later that everything will be cocktails. 'Twas better, universe.

So right now, I don't have to deal with the pressure of associating myself with the drunkard image because I can easily conceal by putting up a glass of pineapple juice in front me. I wasn't pressured of getting caught on the camera with bottle of alcoholic beverages around because basically, everything was cocktail. Cool! I told you, I am not comfortable in settings like this unless the circumstances are safe. So, yes, it is safe in 2600. You can be decent and wholesome if you wish (I am referring to the 'very' conservative way. Mind you, there are also drunk gals and lads who still look decent.). No peer pressure. No social pressure. But high blood pressure will kick in if you're susceptible.

Please pardon my paranoia. I won't tell. Sorry for this blabbermouth in me.

▬ Interior 2015 ▬

I LEARNED THAT THIS PUB IS ROUGHLY 1 month old. Yeah, I was here on the 16th of May (2015) and it opened sometime in April. It's relatively new. Well, if ever this pub will find success in the future, I know I'm part of history. I was one of its earliest customers, mind you.

[BAGUIO] ▬ INTERIOR OF 2600 GASTROPUB

[BAGUIO] ▬ SOME PICTORIALS OUT THERE NOW THAT IT'S EMPTY

[BAGUIO] ▬ INTRICATE FLOORING

In light of the foregoing blabbering I've made, I am lucky to enjoy its original interior design. I know, the interior will change by time and I think I'm one lucky guy who has documented its original design inside. So what I will be writing on this article is actually now a part of its history. 100 years from now—maybe—and this article will be a precious piece for having documented its early days—that, if it will last for a century.

Anyway, I put my high cut shoes on, in the circle on the floor with detailed designs that are hard to spell. I took my camera and took a photo of my pair of shoes becoming stellar with its minimalistic appearance in the midst of complicated designs. Just plain brown pair of shoes. I can't remember if I donned a pair of socks. It doesn't suck anyway, does it? Sock the pack up!

▬ The Food ▬

I'VE WAITED FOR THE FOOD TO BE served. The cocktails came first. I managed to get a buzz before the food arrived.

All I knew was all the food served came in great presentation and they did dress to impress. The high expectation though was met, at least how I judged it.

Then suddenly, pies of pizza came and these bloggers gone crazy surrounding a food with their flash-emitting modern-day toys.

[BAGUIO] ▬ IT TASTED SHAWARMA. I WASN'T SURE IT REALLY WAS A SHAWARMA.

[BAGUIO] ▬ COOL PRESENTATION

[BAGUIO] ▬ I DON'T MEMORIZE THE NAME OF THE FOOD ON THE MENU. I JUST EAT 'EM LIKE THIS ONE.

[BAGUIO] ▬ I'M PRETTY SURE THIS IS PIZZA!

[BAGUIO] ▬ PIZZA! PIZZA!

[BAGUIO] ▬ WHY CARE ABOUT THE NAME IF YOU CAN EAT THEM?

[BAGUIO] ▬ BLOGGERS GETTING CRAZY OVER THIS PIZZA.

[BAGUIO] ▬ FOOD GALORE

I want to get back with the paranoia 'cause I think I'm hooked with the cocktail buzz. The great food in front of me and the line of cocktails that seemed to appear as non-alcoholic with my glass emptied twice disguised my little hiprocrisy, sometimes getting a bit blatant, just a bit. Now I'm giving a clue.

As a revelation, I am acting like this because I am willfully allowing the pressure of the norms and traditional customs to get into me. I treat it as part of my self-regulation—that I won't take a slippery slope. I find keeping the subtle desires and suggestive cravings cute. Making it proud and blatant may lose the sweet spot as it may have been just a normal thing and we know for the fact that anything that is normal is flat.

So anyway, yes, food here doesn't suck. I think it's one of their best assets especially beneficial to those who reason out the food as their purpose why they're here keeping it safe from the passé (yet somehow right in many cases) dictum of the traditional public.

▬ The Music in the House▬

THE START OF THE FUN WAS INITIATED by techno vibe that made the house alive. I was near the disc jockey and I watched his every move. He sways his head with the headphones on.

He mans the mixer twisting and pressing some buttons one at a time.

[BAGUIO] ▬ DOING WHAT HE'S SUPPOSED TO DO

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE DISC JOCKEY

[BAGUIO] ▬ YOU ROCK, JOCK!

Suddenly I am hearing Kylie Minogue slaying her duet with Jason Donovan which was released in the extreme edge of the 80's making it a big hit in the 90's (Especially for You). My childhood fantasies resurrected. I realized I'm grown-up. For me, 90's is the golden era of the real music industry. It's my own perspective anyway because in the later decades, most music is no longer the music I once met in my childhood. Man, 90's is my standard of a good music.

Then, the playlist went on and it made me wild, almost shedding tears, remembering the good old days in favor of nostalgia. The songs are all very familiar and have a space in my heart. I grew up listening in these songs and I remember my days as a kid sitting on the edge of our room's window covered by night with a galvanized iron with the radio on secured by a black cable on a beam above my head to prevent it from falling. You see? I remember the details of decades-old memories and only my fave 90's music can make me do that.

I sang those songs loudly and wait for them to be played by 98.9 DWIS FM broadcasting less than a kilometer from our home (this station is no longer there *sad emoticon* uh). I wish I can go back to those days and play the care-free child that was me singing at the top of my lungs without thinking any life's problem. Only 90's music can make me this wild. If the music is spiced with a buzz, then I'm sorta high.

▬ So What About the Zip Code? ▬

BAGUIO'S ZIP CODE IS 2600. THE 2700 goes for my hometown. Anyway, 2600 Gastropub will never be lost from its host city that it even owned its zip code. Yes, its name is all about Baguio's postal code.

[BAGUIO] ▬ I LEFT THE PLACE THE PARTY IS STILL WARMING UP.

[BAGUIO] ▬ THE FAÇADE

Now that the postal code has turned into a name of a nightout destination, you can always associate your night life experience in 2600 Gastropub with Baguio.

▬ Conclusion ▬

So this nighout was more of self-reflection, kinda weird, but it turned out to be like that. Well I loved the company of fellow bloggers. It was nice to have fun with these fellas.

I think the place was a trigger. It helped me rediscover myself.

[BAGUIO] ▬ IT WOULD NEVER BE ENOUGH BUT EVERYTHING HAS TO END.

[BAGUIO] ▬ WE LEFT THE GASTROPUB UNSHAKEN. THE NIGHT MUST GO ON.

[BAGUIO] ▬ NEWLY FOUND FRIENDS

In everything that starts, it has to end. After experiencing the place, trying the dishes, singing with the 90's vibe and meeting new friends, the end has to come. What's great with coming to an end is the opportunity to start all over again and make it better. So there is no such thing as a sad ending. ▬ to be continued...

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOG SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ WHAT I DID ON THE THIRD DAY? IT ACTUALLY SMELLED MORE FUN.

► BLOG SERIES: AZALEA SUMMER GETAWAY

Up Next: The night has to end, the second day too. But the third day is much better, more exciting and more physically-demanding. Watch out for Part 10.

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Night Leisure." This category is a collection of stories about all the leisure activities that come along the night I've experienced. To see more posts from this category, scroll down and check the "More Posts From This Category" section below.

[2] This experience was made possible through Azalea Residences Hotel in Baguio City. I was invited to experience the Azalea hospitality.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Baguio

MORE TOWNS IN 'CORDILLERA' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[TUBA] ▬ A MAN STANDS BEHIND THE GLASS WALLS.

I've been hearing this so-called BenCab Museum many times and my impression is that it is a modern museum that features contemporary art. Well I was partially right, actually.

▬ En Route to BenCab Museum ▬

I'M STILL A VIP TOURIST THIS TIME as this big hotel in Baguio playing well in the tourist market organized a tour for us guests. It's our third day in Metro Baguio and the fun never stops. I boarded in the tourist van thinking we're going to a place called La Presa made popular by a hit soap opera in the Philippines called Forevermore. I was so excited but I later found out that the latter is not our destination.

[TUBA] ▬ THE ROAD TO BENCAB MUSEUM

So the road going to that museum is not a super highway. It was a humble road leading to a destination that you can be proud of. I am not just referring to the museum but by just seeing the beautiful view of the mountains of Tuba, the simple yet fruitful life around and a suburb you may think didn't exist, you can be proud to have lived or visited the wonderful Philippine archipelago.

Well, who cares a super highway when all you see is the filth of unregulated urbanization? I will still choose the humble road of love.

▬ The First Glimpse ▬

THEN AFTER WINDING ON THE ROAD THAT is obviously made to fit the terrain, we reached a very quiet place. The mountainous backdrop is still there but there is this one eye-catchy building that really stands out—the BenCab Museum.

[TUBA] ▬ MY FIRST GLIMPSE OF BENCAB MUSEUM

It was just so unusual—me seeing a museum in a unique location. How cool is that! The architectural beauty is incongruous from the rest—really eye-catchy.

Tourist vehicles and cabs carrying tourists paying 300 an hour dominated the parking lot, still, they cannot take away the overt aesthetics.

▬ The Man Behind the Legend and a Little History ▬

THE MOST POPULAR ARTISTS WE KNOW TODAY came from the colonial period. We have Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo to name a few. For these modern ages, there are enormous number of great artists but only a few can naturally form its fandom because it is not easy to stand out due to the list of high-caliber artists sprouting everywhere. For the man behind the BenCab Museum, he made it in the cut. He was able to create a niche that can be called his own making him earn the title "Master of Contemporary Philippine Art."

[TUBA] ▬ ONE OF THE PAINTINGS DISPLAYED INSIDE THE MUSEUM

BenCab is a contraction of Benedicto Reyes Cabrera born in Manila on April 10, 1942. He received his bachelor's degree in fine arts from the University of the Philippines in 1963. From there, the rest is history. He received many awards in his field—the most notable is an award elevating his status as a national artist in 2006 under the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

This artist lives and works in Benguet and has three successful children.

▬ All About Sabel ▬

ACCORDING TO THE BENCAB MUSEUM WEBSITE,"SABEL is a major subject that recurs through BenCab’s works through the decades, inspired by a real-life scavenger, he photographed and sketched in 1965, the Sabel image has become the artist's vehicle for the transmission of intensely emotional moods. When pushed to the limits of abstraction, the Sabel image serves as a fertile ground for the investigation of shape and structure."

[TUBA] ▬ SABEL SERIES INSIDE THE MUSEUM

[TUBA] ▬ SABEL SERIES ON A WALL

A Sabel painting garnered the highest bid during the León Gallery yearender Kingly Treasures Auction and it was sold in a price amounting to 20 million pesos in December, 2014.

On April 30, 2015, BenCab sketched Iza Calzado during the Sabel musical that was staged in Solaire theater. Such musical was inspired by BenCab's artworks.

▬ Location, Contact Number, Entrance Fee, Opening/Closing Time ▬

BENCAB MUSEUM IS LOCATED AT KM 6, Asin Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet. General admission fee is 100 pesos while it's 80 pesos for students with valid ID and senior citizens. You can contact them via landline: (074) 442-7165; via mobile phone: 09205301954.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. They are close every Monday. Operating hours start at 9 AM. The last entry for guests is 5:30 PM then closes at 6 PM.

▬ What to See and Expect Inside? (A Sort of Review) ▬

FOR ARTS AND CULTURE LOVERS, BENCAB MUSEUM is a piece of gold in a bronze age. This is a testament that the Philippine contemporary art is never dead since some artists from Manila showcase their works here.

[TUBA] ▬ A VISITOR LOOKS UP THE ARTWORKS

INTERIOR►The interior is very pleasant. Painted with white, the space appears wider and neat. The museum is a 4-storey structure. No elevator. However, walking through the stairs to go up and down is another experience since it enables you to view the interior and the artworks in different perspectives.

The windows and doors are wide enough to allow the cool mountain breeze to lower down the temperature inside the building as well as allowing natural light to enter.

GALLERIES► The museum is divided into different galleries although every nook of the museum is decorated with artworks and sculpture.

[TUBA] ▬ MUSEUM TOUR GUIDE LEADS THE VISITORS

[TUBA] ▬ A HUGE GALLERY WITH WIDE SPACE

[TUBA] ▬ GALLERY FOR SABEL PAINTINGS

[TUBA] ▬ OTHER CONTEMPORARY ARTS

[TUBA] ▬ ONE OF THE GALLERIES DISPLAYS THIS BLACK AND WHITE PAINTING

▬ Bulol Collection ▬

ALTHOUGH THIS MUSEUM IS AN OVERT MANIFESTATION of a living Philippine contemporary art, the old also finds its space here. BenCab has a huge collection of bulol, an iconic sculpture representing the rich culture and tradition of the Cordilleras. Bulol is a rice god for many Cordilleran tribesmen especially in Ifugao.

[TUBA] ▬ MINIATURE SCULPTURE

[TUBA] ▬ ROW OF BULOL

[TUBA] ▬ BULOL'S HEAD UP CLOSE

[TUBA] ▬ A BIG COLLECTION OF SCULPTURE ARE DISPLAYED IN THIS SECTION.

[TUBA] ▬ ALL NAKED

[TUBA] ▬ BULOL COLLECTION SHOWING IT ALL

[TUBA] ▬ THIS BULOL COLLECTION STANDS OUT WITH THE WHITE BACKGROUND

[TUBA] ▬ MY FAILED ATTEMPT TO APPEAR CANDID: SO OBVIOUSLY STAGED.

As of this posting, this is the biggest bulol collection I have seen ever. It is said that BenCab is fascinated in Cordilleran culture, hence, he chose to live in Benguet with these collections.

▬ Other Artworks ▬

BELOW ARE SOME OF THE ARTWORKS THAT caught my attention and I can say that they have world class qualities.

[TUBA] ▬ BRONZE SOLDIERS SCULPTURE

[TUBA] ▬ THIS VISITOR CLOSELY CHECKS OUT THE DETAILS OF THE ARTWORK.

[TUBA] ▬ VISITORS TAKE A PHOTO OF THE ARTWORK DETAILS.

[TUBA] ▬ SHE FINDS TIME TO CAPTURE THE DETAILS.

[TUBA] ▬ THE FLOOR IS ALSO VERY DETAILED WITH A LOT OF SYMBOLISM.

▬ Farm and Garden ▬

BENCAB MUSEUM IS MORE THAN JUST SHOWCASING Philippine contemporary arts and bulol collections. It also has its own farm and garden.

[TUBA] ▬ THE FARMS AND GARDEN AS SEEN FROM THE MUSEUM BUILDING

[TUBA] ▬ THE DUCK POND

[TUBA] ▬ REFRESHING VIEW AT THE MUSEUM'S BACKYARD

[TUBA] ▬ TOURISTS ENDURE THE HOT SUN TO TAKE PHOTOS.

[TUBA] ▬ THE MOUNTAIN BACKDROP

[TUBA] ▬ A HUT STANDS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE POND.

[TUBA] ▬ SOME ORGANIC FARMS SURROUND THE POND.

At the back of the museum is a huge wonderland with a refreshing view of the verdant surroundings and mountains. This area hosts a pond and organic farms.

Harvests from the organic farms are actually cooked and served in Café Sabel, a restaurant also located in BenCab museum featuring fresh and organic food.

[TUBA] ▬ CAFÉ CEILING

[TUBA] ▬ CAFÉ INTERIOR

[TUBA] ▬ CAFÉ SABEL

▬ Bonus: From Tuba, Benguet and Beyond... ▬

INDEED, WHEN YOUR WORK CAPTURES THE WORLD, it's a good sign that your output is gaining popularity and community value. For BenCab, he has proven his supremacy in his niche. On this section, I will feature some of his works I've personally seen that has crossed borders from his base in Tuba, Benguet.

[VIGAN] ▬ BENCAB'S WORK DISPLAYED IN HOTEL LUNA MUSEUM

[VIGAN] ▬ Hotel Luna Museum► The in Vigan is where I first saw a BenCab creation. His Sabel paintings are displayed on prominent parts of this museum-hotel. In the grand sala, the main part of the museum, a BenCab creation called "conversation" serves as a centerpiece of other artworks including an original multi-million dollar painting of Juan Luna and an original sketch of Fernando Amorsolo.

Note: I will feature more BenCab works in this section (if I will encounter more in the future) that has gone far from its home in Benguet.

[TUBA] ▬ HELLO FROM BENCAB MUSEUM!

▬ Ending Words ▬

ALL OF THE FOREGOING ARE THE THINGS I learned in BenCab Museum. Truly, everywhere is a learning realm. Everywhere is an answer if you have questions. Everywhere is a definition if you look for meanings. BenCab Museum is just one of those 'everywheres' that make our existence worthwhile and exciting. ▬ to be continued...

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOG SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ HANG ON FOR THE NEXT DESTINATION. THIS IS AN IGOROT VILLAGE.

► BLOG SERIES: AZALEA SUMMER GETAWAY

Up Next: Arts and culture turned to canvasses and colors in BenCab Museum that made me feel amazed. After visiting this museum, we'll be going to a destination where culture and heritage turn to a village. I hiked. The village is secluded by trees; the mountain slope holds it right. Watch out for Part 11.

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Museums." This category is a collection of stories about all the museums I've seen or visited. It doesn't matter if the museum is small, huge, old, new, private, public or whatever. To see more posts about museums, scroll down and look for the "More Posts from this Category" blog section.

[2] This experience was made possible through Azalea Residences Hotel in Baguio City. I was invited to experience the Azalea hospitality.

[3] For more information about this museum, check out the official website at bencabmuseum.org. Other helpful webpages I used as reference are the following: 1 | 2

[4] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2 | 3

Map Showing the Location of #Tuba

MORE TOWNS IN 'CORDILLERA' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[VIGAN] ▬ RELAXING COUNTRYSIDE VISTA SEEN FROM THE BACKDOOR OF VIGAN AIRPORTVIEW HOTEL

▬ How Expensive Hotels in Vigan Put Me Into Pressure Bin? ▬

I'VE INTRODUCED MYSELF MANY TIMES IN DIFFERENT platforms that I am a proud son of Vigan and that I am a Vigan-based true-blooded Ilocano travel blogger. Because of this labeling, I have to admit that I've received many queries from both friends and strangers about Vigan. One of the most asked questions is where to stay comfortably in Vigan in a cheap price.

Honestly, I still find time to actually visit hotels and personally inquire about their rates whenever I receive a question like that. I usually don't mind exerting an effort and spending my own money and resources without any return or personal benefit in visiting these hotels because I need to live with the expectation. I want to maintain an image that I am a reliable blogger of everything about Vigan and I must see to it that everything I write and say is true and credible. That's why I only give first hand information.

The thing is, it is really hard to find a cheap hotel in Vigan. I've been to several destinations in the Philippines that are tourists-laden but cheap hotels sprout everywhere. In Vigan, classiness and elegance is the name of the game—not the price. Of course, hotels here need to live with the history of the city that it used to be an important trading hub where big mansions and rich mestizos & elitists of the Spanish-era used to thrive. Tourists also need to feel that—that's the basic traditional mentality at least for mainstream industry players—hence, you need to pay higher for the experience and service you receive. No wonder why most hotels in Vigan have this "old mansion" feel or concept.

The foregoing is the pressure I feel whenever someone asks for help in looking for a cheap yet decent hotel. You see how I struggle. Yes, I do.

Well, I only recommend one hotel whenever someone asks. Unfortunately, the hotel I am always recommending isn't located in Vigan—it's in town, just adjacent to Vigan. The reason is, this hotel is cheap but comfortable enough to have rest since I've personally examined the rooms.

▬ Using My Blog to Spread Good News ▬

THE DRAMA STARTED WHEN I LEARNED THAT the physician whom I work with in the hospital has a newly opened hotel with cheaper price and located in an unusual location for a hotel in Vigan.

[VIGAN] ▬ VIEW FROM THE HOTEL TERRACE

I volunteered to visit his newly opened hotel to see if it is worth recommending. Good news! This is a great relief for me who is known to be a blogger who writes guides about Vigan. The pressure of pleasing my readers with a cheap hotel accommodation is finally over.

I am saying the things above because I want to make it clear that this is not a paid post. Honestly, I introduced to the owner the idea of blogging about this hotel to inform the public. The owner thought he has to pay me. I said, "No." Paid posts can pressure me not to be myself.

▬ A Breath of Fresh Air, Deviating from the Common and Usual Vigan Ambiance ▬

I UNDERSTAND THAT TOURISTS VISIT THIS HERITAGE city to feel its Hispanic ambiance. That's a must-try. But for travelers/tourists who tend to find something different from the Vigan mainstream, this hotel I am featuring now is the answer.

[VIGAN] ▬ RURAL SCENE YOU'VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE IN VIGAN

This is the first hotel in Vigan, as far as I am concerned, that has broken all the traditional rules. While tourists love experiencing the old mansions by checking-in to ancestral houses converted into hotels, this one is a bit adventurous to offer something new.

To someone who've been to Vigan several times wanting to try a new accommodation in a new setting, this hotel is waiting for you.

So how much it costs to stay in this new hotel in Vigan? How far? How does it look? How many rooms? Is it near the tourist attractions in Vigan? The answers to these question will be revealed on the next part of this series. ▬ to be continued...

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOG SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ THE NEXT STORY IS ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS OF THIS HOTEL.

► BLOG SERIES: THE BIRTH OF VIGAN'S CHEAPEST HOTEL

Part 1 | |

Up Next: Where to find this hotel? How much is the rate? Using my motorbike, I drove to the Vigan countryside where beautiful countryside view is so alive. This hotel is indeed new to my taste. This is a different Vigan image. No calesa. No old houses.

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Overview." This category is a collection of stories about how I see things based on my experiences. I actually write an overview post to introduce a new blog series or to summarize a travel experience in general while waiting for them to be written down into specific stories that will appear in a future blog series. To see more posts from this category, scroll down and look for the "More Posts from this Category..." blog section.

[2] I would like to thank Dr Dennis Ragasa for allowing me to write about this hotel.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2 | 3

Map Showing the Location of #Vigan

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ILOCOS SUR. Map © Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez — CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING ILOCOS SUR.

MORE TOWNS IN 'ILOCOS' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[VIGAN] ▬ THE CEILING IS DESIGNED WITH CAPIZ-MADE VIGAN WINDOWS AND A CALESA CARTWHEEL.

▬ An Overview ▬

IF YOU ARE AN ILOCANO, YOU MOST likely know what lilong and lilang mean. But for the benefit of those who aren't, lilong means grandfather, or less appropriately, an old man or male elder. Lilang is the female counterpart.

[VIGAN] ▬ ENTRANCE TO THE RESTAURANT

Actually, this restaurant is just a special feature of a tourist destination in Vigan called Hidden Garden where different species of exotic and popular ornamental plants are grown.

Hidden Garden features the terracotta industry of Vigan. It is originally a landscaping business that has turned into a tourist destination. Lilong and Lilang Restaurant is another addition to the whole package.

[VIGAN] ▬ INSIDE THE RESTAURANT

▬ A Terracotta Welcome ▬

LILONG AND LILANG RESTAURANT IS LOCATED IN Barangay Bulala, a community of inherent local terracotta artists. Bulala is also known as the Damili Village. Damili in Ilocano means "products made of baked clay." Bulala has a vibrant damili industry, hence the title.

[VIGAN] ▬ DAMILI PRODUCTS FROM WALKWAY TO ORNAMENTATION

The entrance of the restaurant is a fine example of a damili-producing household. Many households in Bulala actually have this set-up. They display their products somewhere around their houses both for business and aesthetic purposes. Lilong and Lilang restaurant really represents the community where it belongs.

▬ Eco-Tourism Inspired with Ilocano Heritage ▬

ILOCANO STUFF IS EVERYWHERE IN LILONG AND Lilang restaurant. Aside from the damili and the famous Vigan terracotta tiles, pieces of the Ilocano culture are also here.

[VIGAN] ▬ BUDDHA BUSTS AND SCULPTURE ARE ALSO HERE HOWEVER, MIXING WITH ILOCANO STUFF.

[VIGAN] ▬ CAPIZ WINDOWS AND DADAPILAN ARE DISPLAYED HERE, TRULY ILOCANO.

[VIGAN] ▬ RECEPTION AREA.

This restaurant has been featured many times on national television and several magazines. On August 28, 2015, this restaurant was chosen as the 'Best Eco-Tourism Inspired Restaurant' by the National Product Quality Excellence Award (Q Asia's Seal of Product Quality).

The restaurant is located inside the Hidden Garden as I mentioned above where enormous plant species are kept and grown, hence, an eco-tourism destination.

▬ On a Rainy Day ▬

I'VE, ONE TIME, EXPERIENCED DINING IN THIS restaurant on a rainy day. The feeling is quite different. I saw the raindrops fall to the terracotta decorations and plants. The leaves turned more beautiful. The air became cooler as warm laughter with my friends dominated the moment.

[VIGAN] ▬ THE WET LEAVES AND BUST/SCULPTURE REFLECT THE LIGHT, THUS SHINING.

[VIGAN] ▬ WHERE RAINFALL HAS THE DRAMA

▬ The Food ▬

This restaurant + café claims itself as a place to discover native Ilocano food. I've been here a lot of times. Too bad, I always fail to take a photo of some of the Ilocano dishes I've tried here. But of course, if you do not like Ilocano cuisines which I doubt, you have other options. The following photos are the food I managed to dig from my files.

[VIGAN] ▬ DRAGON FRUIT IS PLENTY IN ILOCOS.

[VIGAN] ▬ EMPANADA DISSECTED.

[VIGAN] ▬ EMPANADA WITH ATSARA.

[VIGAN] ▬ JOINING THE EMPANADA ARE THESE COOLERS.

[VIGAN] ▬ AVOCADO SHAKE

[VIGAN] ▬ THEIR VERSION OF HALO-HALO

▬ Location, Opening/Closing Time, Contact Number, How to Go ▬

IF YOU WISH TO VISIT THIS PLACE, just ride a tricycle. From Vigan poblacion (Brgy I to IX), the fare usually costs 40-50 pesos one way for a maximum of 4-5 people. If you are alone, you still have to pay for the whole price. But if you will go the poblacion from here, fare should be per head and not per trike. So you have to pay about 10-12 pesos per head regardless if you're alone or as a group.

Inset: I don't want to destroy the image of Vigan but it is no longer new anymore that Vigan's tricycle drivers are infamous for overcharging. I encourage every tourist not to choose a tricycle driver charging more than what you should pay. Sometimes, we should teach these tricycle drivers who violate the law a lesson. Choose tricycle drivers who follow the city ordinance and support them so that they will continue to become tourist-friendly, thus, reducing the notoriety of Vigan trikemen. Ignore the discourteous and overcharging drivers.

When hiring a trike, tell them you're going to Hidden Garden of Brgy Bulala and not Lilong and Lilang Restaurant. Most tricycle drivers are not familiar of the name of the restaurant. Hidden Garden is the more appropriate destination to tell since everyone is familiar of the place.

This restaurant is open from 6 AM to 7 PM. Contact them at (077) 722-1450.▬ end.

[VIGAN] ▬ THEIR MENU BOOK

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Restaurants." This category is a collection of stories about all the restaurants I've seen, tried or experienced. To see more posts from this category, scroll down and look for the "More Posts from this Category" blog section below.

[2] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Vigan

MORE TOWNS IN 'ILOCOS' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[VIGAN] ▬ SAVORING A BREATH OF FRESH AIR WHILEVIEWING THE RELAXING EXPANSE

▬ Vigan Airport View Hotel ▬

THE NAME OF THIS HOTEL I AM featuring now is Vigan Airport View Hotel. The reason is, it is actually very near the Vigan Airport. It opened sometime in September 2015 and gladly I was able to join the simple blessing celebration on 20 September 2015. As of now, the complete plan for the hotel is not yet finished. However, its rooms are already open for business.

[VIGAN] ▬ IN FRONT OF ONE OF ITS ROOMS

▬ Room Rates ▬

AS OF THIS POST, THE HOTEL HAS 4 rooms ready for use. This hotel is friendly for group travelers. You can actually save a lot if you are in group.

[VIGAN] ▬ AN ESCAPE FROM THE BUSY CITY LIFE

Two of its rooms cost 1800 pesos that is good for 6 people. If you are six in the group, you only have to pay 300 pesos/pax. If you are short of six, you have to divide among yourselves the 1800 pesos rate. If you are more than six in the group, the extra person will only have to pay another 300 pesos. If you are alone, you have to bear the whole rate.

The other two rooms are good for couples. Staying in the room costs 1200 pesos in 24 hours. However, it can still accommodate up to 4 people where you can divide among yourselves at 300 pesos/pax. If you are alone, you also need to pay for the whole room rate.

Charging for the rooms is per 24 hours from the time of check-in. So for example you checked-in at 9 AM today, you will be charged until 9 AM the next day.

▬ Inside the Rooms ▬

ROOMS ARE SPACIOUS. EACH ROOM HAS ITS own bathroom with hot and cold shower and working desks. Well, do not expect something luxurious or fancy because this is a budget accommodation. And I must say, considering the price, this is a bang for the buck.

[VIGAN] ▬ LINENS ARE MADE OF THE ILOCANO WOVEN FABRIC ABEL.

[VIGAN] ▬ ONE BED CAN ACCOMMODATE TWO INDIVIDUALS.

[VIGAN] ▬ COUPLE BEDROOM

▬ A Different Genre ▬

VIGAN IS KNOWN FOR ELEGANT AND PRICEY hotels with a Hispanic touch. This hotel is very much different. I want to make it clear that I am suggesting this hotel to those who are traveling in group, budget-conscious and looking for a peaceful secluded location.

[VIGAN] ▬ HORSETAIL GRASS SEEN IN THE EXPANSE

[VIGAN] ▬ LITERALLY, A VIEW OF THE VIGAN AIRPORT

[VIGAN] ▬ THE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUDGET HOTEL

So this hotel has a different genre. While most hotels in Vigan allow you to experience the Vigan culture and heritage, this one features the peaceful charm and quiet side of the heritage city.

This hotel is for those who are looking for a secluded place in Vigan that is away from the noisy streets and tourist crowds. I would advise you to shop for your personal effects and food before you check in here because there are no shopping areas nearby. As I said, this is located in the Vigan countryside.

▬ Vigan Attractions Near this Hotel ▬

ALTHOUGH NOT LOCATED IN THE HEART OF the city, there are several attractions you can enjoy nearby. The following are my suggestions:

[VIGAN] ▬ HIDDEN GARDEN

[1] Hidden Garden ► Hidden Garden and this hotel are located in the same barangay called Bulala. You can actually walk to this eco-tourism destination in Vigan for about 10 minutes from here. But if you are not into walking, just ride to a tricycle and you'll be there in about 2 minutes at 10 pesos fare.

Hidden Garden hosts an award-winning restaurant called where you can enjoy authentic Ilocano food with a beautiful ambiance. Hidden Garden features different species of ornamental plants and the Vigan terracotta industry.

[VIGAN] ▬ MINDORO BEACH

[2] Mindoro Beach ► Mindoro Beach is Vigan's version of an endless summer. This is a fine black-sand beach. It's best to visit this beach during sunset.

From Vigan Airport View Hotel, you can ride a tricycle for a 10-peso fare. In about 5 minutes, you'll be there. You can take a dip or just .

▬ Upcoming... ▬

COMING SOON IN THIS HOTEL ARE SWIMMING pool and a café. The full development is still underway and I will update this blog as soon as new developments will be done. ▬ end

[VIGAN] ▬ HELLO FROM VIGAN AIRPORT VIEW HOTEL!

► BLOG SERIES: THE BIRTH OF VIGAN'S CHEAPEST HOTEL

| Part 2 |

This series is composed of 2 published episodes. To follow the flow of the story, check out the earlier episode.

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOG SERIES

[END] ▬ END OF SERIES

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Resorts and Accommodations." This category is a collection of stories about my experiences and reviews of resorts and hotels I've personally tried or seen. To see more posts from this category, scroll down and look for the "More Posts from this Category" section below.

[2] I would like to thank Dr Dennis Ragasa for allowing me to write about this hotel.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Vigan

MORE TOWNS IN 'ILOCOS' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[TANAY] ▬ SUNRISE FROM THE HIGHLANDS OF RIZAL PROVINCE, CALABARZON

▬ Good Morning Tanay, Rizal!!! ▬

THE BUS STOPPED BUT IT WAS STILL dark. I had this vibration telling me that we've reached the destination but everyone seemed to be sleeping still. So, I actually continued to sleep. I woke up seeing some empty couches so most probably some have alighted. My excited travel spirit compelled me to go out immediately not wasting any second for bitterness and hopia-ness.

[TANAY] ▬ A SUNRISE AND A WARM WELCOME

[TANAY] ▬ HIGHLAND VIEW WITH NO TRACE OF BITTERNESS

So I went out thinking it will be a warmer morning but I was wrong. Uh, it's the same. The chilly air was better though because it was all natural. It's so much different from the air inside the bus infested with air freshener that sometimes make me vomit. I think I'm liking the natural cold air.

The natural light from the heavens above has appeared and to my surprise, I am in the place that seemed to be in a high altitude and I was able to confirm that this is our destination. There were mountains, mostly grass-clad. In fairness, those covered by trees were noticeable too. But the most noticeable of all is the beautiful sunrise over the mountain ranges that seemed like I was the only one who cares. The rest are busy sipping a coffee sold by early-bird vendors sprouting from different locations on the shoulders of the snaky road.

▬ Trespassing for a Better Sunrise ▬

WHEN THE MORNING CAME, I SAW TWO farmers who are, in this very early part of the day, already worn out with sweat while I still cannot move on with the early morning cold air that I've started to love. There are blockages of the sunrise view so I was not contented. I wanted to take a nice photo of the sunrise and a nice selfie. So I entered this fenced property so that I can enjoy the view clearly that morning. At first, I didn't see anyone whom I can ask for permission. Well, this is the first time that I witnessed a sunrise in Rizal province and I want to romanticize it.

[TANAY] ▬ VIEW FROM THE PROPERTY I ENTERED

[TANAY] ▬ ME AND THE SUNRISE

A few meters pass the fence, I saw someone standing and asked him if I can enter. Gladly he permitted me to continually roam around inside the property. So these highlands have charm. By the way, this is a portion of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Yes, I'm in Sierra Madre!

____________________

When the sun has fully risen, I went back in the place where the bus was parked. I saw a road leading to somewhere and a lone woman is walking on that road. Where is she going?

[TANAY] ▬ WHERE THIS WOMAN IS GOING?

[TANAY] ▬ THEN THE CROWD APPEARED FROM NOWHERE

Upon coming back to the parking area, a crowd has appeared this early. So what's happening? Where are these people going and why they are waiting here? Are they going to follow the woman walking alone on that road? What's in the end of that road? What's waiting for us there, or is there any? ▬ to be continued...

► BLOG SERIES: "FACES OF PILGRIMAGE SITES - TANAY AND QUIAPO"

Part 1 | |

This is the first episode of this travel drama blog series (travel blogserye) entitled "Faces of Pilgrimage Sites - Tanay and Quiapo". To follow the flow of the story, watch out for the upcoming episodes to be published soon or follow our social media accounts for the latest updates.

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOGSERYE - STORIES/TOPICS INCLUDED IN THIS SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT EPISODE (PART 2).

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Sunrise and Mornings" This category is a collection of stories and insights about any sunrise I've seen and morning experiences during my travels. So far, this is the first post for this category. More posts from this category will be added soon.

[2] The stories here happened on 14 March 2015 in Tanay and Quiapo.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Tanay

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING RIZAL. Map © Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez — CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING RIZAL.

MORE TOWNS IN 'CALABARZON' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO EXPLORE

[TANAY] ▬ THE CREEPING LIGHT STARTS TO REVEAL THE GIANT BRONZE STATUE.

▬ Before the Right Time ▬

WE REACHED THIS PLACE JUST BEFORE THE sun spewed some light so I had really no idea how this place looks like. Then there was this crowd build-up from nowhere. More and more people came so the crowd continues to grow. And yes, these people are going to one destination just waiting for the right time to come.

Most of the people here are pilgrims, some are riders doing a weekend ride while one person is just a curious lad—that's me. Well I'm neither a pilgrim or a rider this time. I'm not here for a religious purpose. As I always say, I travel because I want to learn and this place considered by pilgrims as sacred ground for their Roman Catholic faith is yet another beautiful subject to understand, discover and enjoy. So yes, I'm here as a curious traveler who wants to discover and learn new things.

[TANAY] ▬ IN FRONT OF THE TALL MAIN GATE

The right time here is 8 AM. It is that time of the day pilgrims are allowed to march to the 71-foot tall giant statue we're seeing from our present location that seemed to be rising from the dark ash then the light revealed its shiny bronze color.

▬ A March to the Lady on a Hill ▬

FINALLY, THE SECURITY GUARD HAS SIGNALED US that it's now alright to approach the lady on the hill. But before that, a mandatory briefing was conducted to the first batch of visitors (I'm included) in one of its gathering facilities.

[TANAY] ▬ SEEING THE STATUE ALONG THE WAY

[TANAY] ▬ I ZOOMED THE CAMERA AND HERE IT IS, CLOSER.

[TANAY] ▬ SNAKY ROAD TO THE STATUE

[TANAY] ▬ CROWD AT THE ENTRANCE GATE TO THE LADY

[TANAY] ▬ WE'RE GETTING CLOSER.

We followed a trail that led us to the top of the hill where the lady is standing with halo crown and the infant Jesus carried by her left hand.

The trail alone is already a satisfying encounter where line of tall mahogany trees, citrus plants, sunflowers and other trees conflate to bring out a peaceful and breathtaking setting. With me are some senior citizens who ignored the direful joint pain just to fulfill the desire of their faith. One I've met is more than 80 years old.

The trail, made easier by concrete stairs, was filled with a queue of pilgrims ascending to the top of the hill. This is a big relief for the elderly marchers.

It seemed like I really can't move on with the beautiful surrounding as I joined the queue. This sanctuary is a tourist destination itself. It's as comely as a beautiful virgin lady.

▬ Pilgrims vs Tourists ▬

REACHING THE TOP OF THE HILL, I realized this place is not limited to pilgrims. It is for both pilgrims and tourists. As I reach the top, about 90% of the multitude had their photos taken using their smartphones, tablets and digital cameras. Selfie sticks are very present.

[TANAY] ▬ UNDER THE CLEAR BLUE SKY

[TANAY] ▬ THIS COUPLE IS TAKING A PHOTO OF THE GIANT VIRGIN MARY STATUE.

[TANAY] ▬ A GIANT SCULPTURE OF VIRGIN MARY AND A CHILD

[TANAY] ▬ MOST OF THEM ACTUALLY QUEUED FOR A PHOTO-OPP ABOVE THE GROUND.

[TANAY] ▬ MY VERSION OF SELFIE WITH THE GIANT LADY ON A HILL.

[TANAY] ▬ CLEAR BLUE SKY

▬ A Beautiful Descent ▬

FROM THE TOP, THERE'S ANOTHER TRAIL GOING down. Once again, the trail view never disappoints. The view on the other side of the sanctuary is equally satisfying. As I left the hill where the giant Virgin Mary statue was perched, another set of multitude came.

[TANAY] ▬ ANOTHER SET OF MULTITUDE IS CREEPING IN.

[TANAY] ▬ VIEW FROM THE EXIT TRAIL

[TANAY] ▬ I'M HOOKED TO THE BEAUTY OF THE 13.5-HECTARE PROPERTY.

[TANAY] ▬ JUMP SHOT PARA SA EKONOMIYA.

All of the foregoing is just a touch of the whole narrative and stories that happened here. This post focused only on the the giant Virgin Mary statue where I wrote my observation and insights.

There are more to explore and learn inside this expanse of paradise. There is this spot here called as "Breasts of God." Breast? We will dig deeper so join me in my mission to unlock new learning on the next blog episodes to come. What is the significance of this so-called breasts of God in this sacred ground? ▬ to be continued...

► BLOG SERIES: "FACES OF PILGRIMAGE SITES - TANAY AND QUIAPO"

| Episode 02 |

This is the second episode (Episode 02) of this travel drama blog series (travel blogserye) entitled "Faces of Pilgrimage Sites - Tanay and Quiapo". To follow the flow of the story, you may read the earlier published episode and watch out for the upcoming episodes. You can also follow our social media accounts for the latest updates.

INDEX: INSIDE THIS BLOGSERYE - STORIES/TOPICS INCLUDED IN THIS SERIES

[UP NEXT] ▬ WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT EPISODE (EPISODE 03).

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Markers and Monuments".

[2] The stories here happened on 14 March 2015 in Tanay and Quiapo.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Tanay

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[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ SUNSET OVER THE SAN FERNANDO BAY IN LA UNION FROM THE BAY'S ROOFTOP

▬ Sea and Sky Hotel: Flashback 10 Years Ago ▬

SOMETIMES, FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS AND FIGHTING FOR it may have unexpected perks, beautiful perks. My frustrations in high school were all related to discrimination. The frustration never died when I entered college so like a physiological negative-feedback process, I've worked to turn the negative to positive. I made it sure to always do something remarkable, nay, change the world (or a life at least) that will make me remembered.

Topping the qualifying exam of a scholarship program in allowed me to enroll to one of the most expensive courses in the university near us. I was a privileged student paying almost nothing during enrollment. Back in high school, I was that student who was not given a chance to maximize his potentials because of discrimination. I won't talk much of this because in fact, while I'm writing this, the unpleasant memories are coming back and it makes me sick (note: I've moved on but I can still recognize the emotion). Anyway, I still pursued my passion for writing and sharing stories when I was qualified to become a part of the editorial team of our university students' publication.

▬ Many First Times in Sea and Sky Hotel ▬

I'M A LAKING PROBINSIYA (GREW UP IN the province) so my playgrounds were the riversides and grass fields. I swam in the creeks, caught dragonfly tails and picked cherries where orange butterflies dwell. So 10 years ago, I was chosen to represent my university in a writing competition, the reason why I was able to go here for the first time. Sea and Sky Hotel was the venue.

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ TEAM REGION 1: RECEIVING THE AWARDS 10 YEARS AGO IN THIS HOTEL

This was the first time I stayed overnight in a hotel. It was also my first time to ride an elevator. I was already a teen that time and I think the level of my familiarity about these things might be the same to a 7-year-old Manila boy. Well, I felt so proud to experience those things since my other older friends who are fellow probinsiyanos never tried it at all. There are basic things in a city life commonly done by city dwellers. But for rural-grown children like us, this basic thing is an achievement to try even once and it's a big deal. Well, I bagged a place in the competition and I, however, was able to make my university proud.

My first hotel stay and elevator experiences were granted to me for the first time because of my love in stitching words and making stories. My dream to travel outside was granted too and it felt so good to reach the places that are very familiar to me on the map. However, I cannot be a storyteller forever because I've chosen another path for practical reasons—to become a professional nurse, the best offer I can get from the scholarship grant .

After 10 years, I almost cried when I visited this hotel for the second time. Memories of the covert innocence of a poor kid from the province are coming back. I entered the hotel premises with confidence now. I can't believe I am capable now. Things running inside my head include the years that have passed. Uh, It's been ten years and that ten years ago was the time when I was still starting to follow my dreams and had occasional perks because of doing it by heart. But I always rely on the perks. After ten years, I can now afford to enter this hotel confidently; being unafraid because I know I can now afford one serving of their best seller.

▬ Solitary Moment at The Bay Grill's Rooftop ▬

I ENTERED THE HOTEL PREMISES AND IMMEDIATELY looked for that restaurant I saw 10 years ago that I was not able to try because I thought it was relatively expensive, being my case.

I took the steel stair to reach the rooftop where I can view the sunset over San Fernando Bay without obstruction. I looked up the heavens and breathed the fresh seaside air.

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ AL FRESCO DINING AT THE BAY GRILL AND CAFÉ

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ THE BAY GRILL AND CAFÉ

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ MY COOLER: SOME FRUIT SHAKES HERE

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ THIS SERVED AS DINNER. THE SUNSET IS GONE.

I asked one of the crew to hand me the menu book, picked my order and waited for it to be served. I was alone this time. However, at the other tables, there are also loners. I only saw one couple.

▬ Ending Insights ▬

Reminiscing took over. I thanked the Lord He allowed me to experience those unpleasant things of the past where I felt so inferior and incapable because I was just a normal barrio kid. Why I'm thanking Him for those painful past? I would say this way: I won't be able to appreciate the little blessings I have now if I don't know how it feels to become inferior, incapable and less in life. These are just little things and it's not a big deal for some. But for a probinsiyano kid like me who never tried doing these things, it is indeed an achievement for me now to be able to do this.

It may sound funny that eating in a hotel restaurant is big deal for me. You will not understand this unless you've tried becoming a kid who is less in life. Some millionaires already have everything yet some are not yet contented having the latest model of sports car. Who's luckier then? I think I am. My level of happiness and contentment is shallow. Thanks to my past. ▬ end

[SAN FERNANDO] ▬ REMEMBRANCE PHOTO

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Restaurants".

[2] The stories here happened on 21 March 2015 in San Fernando, La Union.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Some were taken from Google maps. Source: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Map Showing the Location of #SanFernando

CLICK TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING LA UNION. Map © Mike Gonzalez and Google Maps

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CLICK MAP TO DISPLAY LATEST ENTRIES COVERING LA UNION.

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[VIGAN] ▬ BIGUEÑOS HOME-MADE BURGER

▬ Bigueños Home-Made Burger ▬

THIS BURGER I'M FEATURING NOW IS WHAT they call the Bigueños home-made burger. It has thick tasty patty sandwiched with cheese and other taste-enhancing ingredients and sesame seeds-filled bun. Its familiar taste is comfortable to the taste buds. There's nothing magical about the taste but its affordable price at 75pesos each has made it stellar for its quality and size.

The name Bigueños came from the word 'Bigueño', a term used to refer to the citizens of Vigan.

[VIGAN] ▬ BIGUEÑOS HOME-MADE BURGER

▬ Where to Have This Burger? ▬

THE NAME OF THE RESTAURANT THAT MAKES this burger is Bigueños Cafe.net. It is a cozy café with an internet shop on the other side.

It is located at corner Salcedo and Rizal Streets in Vigan City. For more information, photos and reviews about this café, please watch out for the next post on this blog.

▬ Ending Words ▬

SO WHY I'M WRITING ABOUT THIS BURGER? You won't probably fully understand the reason if you are not from Vigan. Being a resident of this city, I know the things that are going popular, hip and trendy in our place. This relatively cheap burger, having captured the palate of some Bigueños, has once become part of their lives.

In the event that this burger shall disappear on the menu too soon (I hope it won't happen though), those who haven't tried it would at least have an idea what the older Bigueños are talking about. I'm writing this to serve as future reference of Vigan's pop-culture that changes so fast. ▬ end

[VIGAN] ▬ SHOOTING THE BURGER: CANDID PHOTO TAKEN BY MY COUSIN

► FOOTNOTES, DISCLAIMERS, ACKNOWLEDGMENT, ETC

[1] This post is filed under the category "Food and Cuisines". To read more posts from this category, scroll down and look for the "More Posts from the Category Foods and Cuisines" section below.

[2] The photos here were taken on 18 October 2015 while typhoon Lando is hitting Vigan. Me and my cousin decided to kill the boredom being stuck inside the house so we spent some time in this restaurant. The descriptions I posted here are based on the food that was given to me the time of my visit. All reviews are subjective and personal.

[3] All maps I used on this post are the works of Eugene Alvin Villar and Mike Gonzalez published on Wikipedia. Source: 1 | 2

Map Showing the Location of #Vigan

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[BANGUED] Lomo-Lomo with Pig Brain

[BANGUED] Selfie-ing in front of the Abra Capitol

#VIGAN

[BANGUED] Abra-Made Longganisa

ILOCOS SUR

ILOCOS NORTE

[BANGUED] Imbaliktad nga Baka

[BANGUED] Igat is an eel from the great rivers of Abra.

[BANGUED] Pork Galore with Bagnet

[BANGUED] Abra Pancit Miki

[TINEG] River Fish aka Palileng

[TINEG]Wild Boar Dish, the Baboy Ramo challenge

Abra #TownExploration Series

Map showing the Location of Abra

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[BANGUED] ▬ THE WINES OF ABRA

[BANGUED] ▬ FRUIT WINE (DUHAT)

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[BANGUED] ▬ REGARDED AS THE 'KING OF RICE'

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[BANGUED] ▬ PAMAYPAY MADE FROM BAMBOO

[BANGUED] ▬ VERSATILE BAMBOO FURNITURE

[BANGUED] ▬ BAMBOO CRAFTS IN ARTISTIC PATTERNS

[BANGUED] ▬ 1. HATS, 2. PLACEMATS 3. MULTI-PURPOSE FURNITURE 4. SOUND AMPLIFIER

Corn Products

[BANGUED] ▬ FROM UPPER LEFT CLOCKWISE: BAG (DETAILS), ROPE, BAG (WHOLE), HOME DISPLAY

Product of a Living Cultural Treasure

[BANGUED] ▬ TEOFILO GARCIA AND HIS KATTUKONG NGA TABUNGAW

Other Products

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[BANGUED] ▬ IGAT OR RIVER EEL

Ending Thoughts

[UP NEXT] ▬ THE HISTORY OF WEAVING HERE IS INTERESTING AND MY THEORY WAS RIGHT.

[BANGUED] ▬ My First Midnight in the Hill of Cassamata via Oval Era

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[BANGUED] ▬ Brgy Patucannay: of Waking Up Early and a Soup Dish

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[BANGUED] ▬ Bamboo Float Parade and the Cool Mountain Tribes

More Stories From #Bangued

Map Showing the Location of #Bangued

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ILOCOS

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[LA PAZ] ▬ ANOTHER LOOM WEAVER IN THE VILLAGE

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[LA PAZ] ▬ ORANGE THREAD

[LA PAZ] ▬ CAREFULLY EXAMINING THE THREAD

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