2 Q&A | Mt. Natib Travel Guide

The Summit of Mt. Natib, seen from Pinagbutasan.

Mount Natib said to be the highest peak in Bataan with an elevation of 1,253 meters (4,111 ft) above sea level. It is located in the western part of Bataan peninsula while Mt. Mariveles (Tarak Ridge) is at the southern half. And this is another favorite climb in the province, alongside with Mt. Mariveles.

Taken from the Summit of Natib showing the peak of Mt. Mariveles (Tarak Ridge) covered with clouds which looks like a hidden cloud village.

So I have prepared a quick guide (Q&A) for Mt. Natib. Although this is not the complete guide yet I’ll try my very best to provide just right information for other climbers.

Can you tell me how to get there?

There are buses in Cubao terminal bound to Bataan. You can ride either Genesis Transport or Bataan Transit. Genesis Transport will drop you off at the highway and you can ride trike to palengke if you’re planning to buy stuff for your climb. Trike fare is P10. On the other hand, Bataan Transit will drop you off near palengke so you might just have 5 minutes leisure walk and save 10 pesos. So I suggest take Bataan Transit if you’re planning to buy things needed for climb in Bataan. Bus Fare is P177 (Genesis or Bataan Transit).

Where is the jump-off located?

Jump-off is located in Brgy. Tala in Orani. You can ride trike for thirty minutes from palengke all the way up to Barangay. Trike driver will drop you off at the Headquarters of the 24th Infantry Wildcat Battalion. Only one is allowed to get inside to write all the names of participants, only the leader of the group is allowed so make sure this person knows the names of the members. You will be asked to leave one ID and a cellphone number in case of emergency.

After completing all the information needed by the Headquarters, you can go ahead proceed to registration point. That means arriving at the headquarters does not mean you will take off your bags, because from there it will be another 5 minutes trike ride all the way up to the registration. Tricycle Fare is P70 per person.

Mt. Natib Marker, an evidence the you reached the roof of Bataan.

How much is registration cost?

Registration cost is P30. It is a store where you can buy trail foods like candies or lollipops. Don’t expect that they have chocolates. There you can also prepare, wearing your trek apparels, protection for your body against the heat of the sun. Then from there, you can commence with your climb.

Who is the contact person?

You can contact; our contact Kuya Wilnor at 0918 – 613 – 9628. He is highly recommended by Pinoy Mountaineer himself Sir Gideon Lasco and the ultimate Batang Lakwatsero Ivan Cultura. Guide Fee is P1500/10people (overnight). I forgot to ask how much if day hike.

Surprisingly, schedule of our climb is also the annual fiesta celebration of Barangay Tala so we were joined by his brother-in-law Allen. This 16-year-old kiddo is still in the process learning the proper way how to guide group of climbers. Anyway, you'll be safe with him. He is already good at young age.

Face the Wall! All the way to the Summit.

How about the climb difficulty rating?

Climb difficulty rating is 6/9 and needed of 5 -6 hours to summit. Well I dunno how to explain when it comes to the number of hours but actually depends on your pacing. If you climb a group of halimaws, should I really need to use that word? Sorry. I dunno how to describe..fast-paced? Well you already know what I mean. J You can take to summit in 4 hours, max of 5 hours. Mt. Natib is considered as a major climb.

The trail is wide starting from the jump-off point. It is a roadway going to “Mayor’s Mansion”, and you heard it right, on top of Barangay Tala is the house of Mayor of Hermosa, Bataan. Then from there, start of the grassland trail which still spacious all the way to Pinagbutasan. At Pinagbutasan, you will have the chance to see the majestic silhouette peak of Mt. Natib.

Passing Pinagbutasan, the trail is still comfortable and wide. Although there are small rocks come along but still okay.

Is there a source of water?

Yup there is. It's a lone water source, a one stop shop. After passing Pinagbutasan is a rest house. There you can get water and take your lunch. You can stay much longer before heading to the base camp. I saw a signage that they will be collecting P20. Lucky us, that time no one is around.

How about the blood leeches aka Limatik?

Limatik is common parasites in many forested mountains in the country. Mt. Makiling is rich in it that’s why I opt not to climb this mountain. Please don’t get me wrong, I am not just fond of these blood leeches.

However, Nevertheless, Nonetheless...

I found out that Mt. Natib is also a limatik zone. Whoaa..unfortunately I am the one pushing the event so no turning back. Gladly I learned that limatik in Mt. Natib only appears during rainy season. So I’m stress-free with these leeches.

But then again…

When we were there, when Allen (our guide) noticed itchiness on his chest and when he checked it, darn a healthy limatik chock-full with blood continue sucking on his skin. And from that moment, I was like paranoid. I feel tingling, and when I checked my shoe, there were 3 looking for my sweet blood. Thankfully my lower body covered with tights and I quickly spurted them with alcohol.

What to do when bitten by limatik?

First, let me start by telling you that no one recorded yet died by a limatik bite. When bitten, DO NOT PANIC because it might put you in danger, keep in mind that you are on top of the mountain. When bitten, do not pull the limatik from your skin because its jaw might be hold unto the pores. It’s painless but their bites are itchy so just spray them with alcohol and they will get off from your skin. Their bite can bleed a lot, I mean a lot. So just cover it with a bandage.

Rappelling time! The rope segment all the way to the summit.

Where is the ideal spot to pitch a tent?

The ideal spot to pitch a tent is at the base camp, at the foot of Mt. Natib. It has a flat ground that made it ideal to stay overnight. It is also spacious that can accommodate up to 20 tents and where you can also set a bonfire for your fabulous social. However in our case, we decided to pitch tent at the summit, although our guide reminded us that the ground is bumpy and is uncomfortable and yet we have the final word. At least when we get up, we have the sunrise ready for us.

What to see at the peak of Mt. Natib?

Upon reaching the peak you will be welcomed by a marker, a DENR signpost showing the information about Mt. Natib. Then you will have at last the chance to see the entire province of Bataan and nearby provinces. Metro Manila is also visible at the southeastern part including the skyscrapers that look too tiny at the Manila Bay. You can also see Mt. Mariveles and Mt. Samat with white cross on it. On the northwest side is the Subic Bay with huge cargo ships and the towering summits of Cinco Picos and Balingkilat. On the northeast side is Mt. Arayat and Central Luzon. Overall you have the 360 degrees view at the roof of peninsular province.

How about cellphone signal?
No worries you can still post status and photos. You can still get in touch with your family, especially with your lovie dovie who I believe the most required, just to avoid ‘tigasin’ mode. Although not all the time there is a signal, SMART subscribers have the strongest connection. But still am able to post real time when I summited this mountain (for Globe folks). Make sure to save your battery or bring power bank.

What are the possible side trips?

There are two possible side trips, you can do traverse from the base camp and that will lead you to Kairukan Falls going to Morong Bataan. However in our case we decided not to do with traverse, therefore, Pasukulan Falls would be the best side trip. It is about five hours trek (2 hours down, 3 hours back) if decided to go visit the Falls. We left our bags and brought only water and some food going to falls. The guide just hid our bags somewhere. 

Take 5! Finally at the river, top of the falls.

Inner Peace! In front of Majestic Pasukalan Falls.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY:

Day 1
0500 ETD for Orani, Bataan by bus
0800 ETA Orani Crossing. Take trike to Brgy. Tala
0900 ETA jumpoff at Brgy. Tala, Orani Bataan. Register.
0930 Start Trek
1130 ETA Pinagbutasan
1330 Arrival at foot of Mt. Natib (Basecamp)
1530 ETA Mt. Natib summit.
1600 Set up camp
1800 Dinner / Socials

Day 2
0500 Wake up/ Enjoy the Sun Rise
0600 Breakfast
0700 Break Camp
0730 Start Descent
0930 Back at Mt. Natib Basecamp. Proceed to Pasukulan Falls
1130 ETA Pasukulan Falls
1200 Lunch/Enjoy Waterfalls
1400 Head Back to Basecamp
1600 ETA Basecamp / Proceed back to Tala
1900 Back at Brgy. Tala. Tidy up
2000 Head back to Orani crossing
2030 Take bus back to Manila
2330 Back in Manila

I hope this post helps with your questions. I based those questions before the event so I know the feeling how questions run into your minds. And disclaimer, this post will not give you the complete but hope helps. Well I just thought twith this simple quick guide some of your questions were answered. #HappyHiking

What are your thoughts? Please comment below.

0 Sagada Brew: Your Coffee - Resto - Desserts in the Highlands!

Sagada Brew | Coffee • Resto • Desserts

The highlands might be out into vast transformation when it comes to transportation, latest smartphones, etc. yet Sagada has a lot to offer. They have WiFi that allows guest to still be connected into the outside world. Even though the connection sometimes sucks but enough to shout out your idea into your networking sites. And I should say that this small yet famous town is not really out of trend.

And speaking of trends, Metro Manila has CBTL, Starbucks, Highlands Coffee, Seattle’s Best etc., Sagada is not far behind. They have this authentic Coffee Brew that can really outdo what is in metropolis. And what is it that would give you an experience of smooth flavor mountain grown coffee? Finest Mountain Tea is a pay to taste.

Not just the best tea and Arabica Coffee that will sooth into your nerves from the freezing atmosphere, they also sell Cupcakes, Cakes and other sweet specialties. They have also number of main dishes that will really make your meal memorable and is something distinctly different from one another.

Inside Sagada Coffee Brew.

The place is beautiful, soulful for its softness, clean and has a touch of modern design. And if you wish to experience spelunking in Sumaguing Cave you will surely pass this cozy yet eye-catching place. So I know after the terrible maneuvers of our body in the cave and a little hike going to Hanging Coffins, this place will definitely a pleasure to cap off the night.

And like what I said we went straight to here after our dinner in Pinikpikan House. The store opens 7AM and closes at 9PM. The night is still young yet it feels like late night, no more kids playing in the street, no people chatting. We would like to have fun and hang out to prolong the night.  When we get inside, it doesn’t have many customers, and you can really feel its laidback.

Blueberry Cookies Peanut Butter.

We ordered this Blueberry Cookie Peanut Butter, and the taste is beyond perfect for Noche Buena. We did not order a lot since we had dinner already. We just want to relax and hear the sounds of nature in the mid of freezing ether. And while waiting they offer their authentic mountain tea and crinkles for free. They also offer lemon water to revive our lost energy.

Sagada Brew Coffee is an ideal resto/café in the highlands; with excellent taste of pastries, cakes and French taste dishes. I don’t really drink coffee or tea because of my acid reflux but I can resist tasting their authentic serves. It’s really pretty hard to resist such temptations.

You can also visit their facebook  page to see how they serve food with its classy and sophisticated. https://www.facebook.com/sagadabrew

You can also contact them here: 0998 988 6257

2 Your Guide to the Wild Wide Waves of Baler Aurora

Surfing as the main attraction in Baler.

For someone who hates long travels by land, Baler can be a farfetched dream destination. It takes more than just will power and determination to be able to embark on a journey to this northeast wonder. It was sickening to traverse for hours across Bulacan, Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya - withstanding every twist and sudden turns. Awesome, majestic, spectacular and Wow! We’re among the few words that I mouthed when we got there and from then on, I knew the travel was worth it.

Traditional Nipa Hut in front of Big Waves.

It was past 7 in the morning when we arrived. The air was misty and cold, far from the usual mornings that I wake up to in Manila. We scoured the place to look for the closest ATM since our cash at hand may not be enough to cover our two (2) day stay. After asking around, we learned that it takes a tricycle ride to get to Casiguran, where Landbank and DBP ATMs are available, only to find out that there is an ongoing power outage since the previous night and that it caused the machines to be non-operational. To make the story short, we have come across several mishaps. The whole experience was made bearable by the cordial and nice residents who are always ready to help whoever is in need of assistance. They are very friendly and wouldn't care for small talks. They love sharing stories and experiences even to someone they do not know personally. Who I love are the people in Baler.

Basic Surfing 101

We had no choice but to use our spare money on hand. Though enough for a day but no assurance for tomorrow. We only wished that power will go back operational in the next days. From the town proper we took tricycle that will bring us to the seaside and will find our luck to get a house to stay. I have called several hotels and transients but no luck. Almost of them are fully booked because aside from anniversary celebration in Aurora, International Surfing Competition was held.

BED Weather. Wild Waves. Whew perfect for Surfing Vacation.

We walked for more than one kilometer just to check available house to stay. At the end of the line we finally found one who just checked out. Lucky for us but we’ll have a leisure walk in distance just to get to surfing center. We only paid P1,500 for two days stay and that is what we are looking for.

When the payment was settled, we chose to rest instead of walking and wandering around. Our body were ripped by the trip all the way from Manila. So I suggest from Genesis Cubao, choose Joy Bus (Genesis owned) that would bring you straight to Baler. Or else you’ll have the best of travel mishaps experience. 

Manila ► Nueve Ecija Central Terminal ► Either take Ordinary Bus to Baler or wait for another Genesis Line to Baler.

Arch Competition. This is from the town of Casiguran.

The alarm buzzed after two hours. Glad I set the alarm or else we will be sleeping the entire day and did nothing. I slept quickly because of the sounds that seems lullaby to your ears with the waves rolling in to the sand and the wind scratching into the roof. And that remind us that metropolis is out of sight.  We get ourselves and just walk barefoot into the black sands of Baler. I enjoyed each and every surge that travels into the tiny pebbles and with its little foams.

Surfers enjoyed gigantic waves that will surely satisfy their hobbies. There were short and long boards, there were also half boards and I’m not sure the purpose. After couple of minutes watching their cheerful smiles, we went to a small panciteria and taste the flavor of Baler.

Afterwards it’s about time to try what these waves and heavy boards could bring. It’s really heavy, I did not get a personal trainer because I know it’s not my hobby though. I just want to enjoy and experience what it feels to be a silver surfer. And I'm telling you, you will really find the pain you are looking for, curves, jumps, balance, and glad that you will be dump into the water but still with tremendous pressure in it.

Band and Bugle Competition in front of Aurora Provincial Hall.

And I must say Surfing is one the best sports but unfortunately not my interest. Nah sorry about that. The waves will surely kill me in time. So after these activities we went to the town proper. There were lyres and bands competition drawing High School and Elementary students. I enjoyed to a not common beat my nerves entail into the rhythms of the bands. I know its common in the Philippines. And I think I have a new tag for Tourism campaign.

The Rio Carnival?! It's More Fun In The Philippines.

Aurora's Southeast Paradise of Dinagalan.

We explored their culture and their arts. They have this small Nipa Huts expressing their uniqueness, their music and literature, their beliefs and values. And I came to realized that although we lived in the same country yet we still have differences when it comes to our culture. And that will make the Philippines rich in history and the colorful arts. Indeed Philippines has the most number of dialects in the world. A total of 171 native languages spoken in the country.

River of the Mother Falls.

The next day we decided to see their Mother Falls from the mountain ranges of Sierra Madre. This mountain has the longest stretched of the mountains – started from the northern province of Cagayan and ends in the south province of Quezon. Whew imagine how long this range is. And it covers 10 provinces in Luzon.

And the Mother Falls that we are about to see was never happen. Trike driver told us that it would take 2 hours trek going there. I’m good at it but my partner is not fond of hiking. So we decided to stay on this river running with very cold water.

Oh well another reason to go back here and hopefully I would absolutely say -- #HalerBaler.

BALER TRAVEL GUIDE

HOW TO GET THERE:

Genesis Bus Company is the only bus lines that travel directly from Manila to Baler. Baler bound buses are located in  Cubao Terminal. And there are two types of bus service.

► Joy Bus, it is an executive luxury bus with no stop-over. It has sleeper and free snacks. Fare is P700 at the time of this posting and require advance reservation.

► Ordinary Air-conditioned Bus. it is hybrid bus with stop-over and would travel six to seven hours. Fare is P450 and does not require reservation.

► For reservation and schedules, you may contact (02) 709 - 0803 or 421 - 1425. You may also visit their website here: http://www.genesistransport.com.ph/

►There are alternative way to go to Baler through Cabanatuan Central Terminal, Nueva Ecija. You can ride Genesis Transport, ES Transport, Five Star and Baliwag. And from Nueva Ecija (like what we did) you can ride either non-air condition bus, van, jeepney and would take more than 2 hours of travel to Baler.

WHERE TO EAT:

Night life is limited in Baler along Sabang Beach but private hotels such as Bay's Inn and Bayler's Inn are open to public for dining. You can also ride tricycle going to town proper and dine at Gerry Shan's Place located at Quezon St., Baler, it offers buffet for P150/head and unlimited Iced Tea. Just tell the driver that you wish to eat at Gerry Shan's and everyone knows where is it.

WHAT TO DO:

Surf is the main attraction in Baler in Sabang beach. They have the best waves, however there are other attractions that you may check, please see list below. Tricycle is the cheapest and most common transportation in Baler so you can hire them to visit the following tourist attractions in Aurora.

► Mother Falls

► Camayan Falls

► Diguisit Falls

► Millennium Tree

► Ampere Beach 

► Ermita Hill

► Dona Aurora Quezon House

► Museo de Baler

► Aniao Islet

WHERE TO STAY:

We stayed at Jam's and Jen's Lodge (0921 598 3588) for P750/night with a single fan. However if you wish a private one with airconditioned rooms. You may check:

► Aliya Surf Camp and Resort  (0939 - 939 - 0929)

► Bay's Inn (0918 - 926 - 6697)

► Bahia de Baler (0908 - 982 - 7064)

► Bayler View Hotel (0919 - 286 - 3105)

1 Mt. Natib | Metres Above Sea Level

At the Summit of Mt. Natib.

The purpose of life is the life of purpose. Meet this boy who dreamt of climbing mountains, pushed himself to do more and experience more. As he always said, it’s always nice to be with “nature”. He harnessed himself to start expanding his dreams and didn’t permit life as mediocrity but rather superintend that there’s such potentials within the fortress of mind. Happiness, Fulfilment, Triumph is a journey not a destination. Meet Kiel Cordon and let’s hear his story towards his first ever mountain climb.

This is your Guy!

Fulfilling your desire is one thing, but if you try to realize it a thousand feet on top of a mountain, hours and hours of rigorous walking, climbing and holding on to nature's provided ropes while balancing from cliff to edge without measures and absolutely no sleep under the sunshine streak of mid afternoon sky, the act of doing for what it's worth is the only thing that matters between you and the rest of existence.

I've never been so up in the mountains before. It was only one of my plans, so as to say, my resolution for this year's "doing something I have never done before." All that excitement and wishful thinking that I would finally go somewhere where only a number of people wants to go is a beautiful thing for me, and when I finally reached my first summit in Mount Natib in Orani, Bataan, I could say that I've never thought I could possibly credit myself more than what I could possibly give.

I was a living paradox as I was trying to contemplate myself to every emotion that was metastasizing all over my vessel. The core of my spirit was like a Rubik's cube that was trying to fit a thousand colors in a six colored pattern. All that courage and faith was all I have left and you'll exactly know how strong you are when being strong is your only choice.

Kiel and Jerome, the first timers at Pinagbutasan.

The Buddies! At the Summit of Mt. Natib!

The moment you actually see water fall hundred of a meter from its source is truly majestic. The awe that was resonating between me and the vibration of the nature's prowess is that I could pose to look good but that waterfalls is going to enamor while devouring its voluntary inhabitants with its magic and beauty that is surrounded by the lush of trees and unimaginable scenery of nature that it possess.

Pointing at the Tarak Ridge, probably his next mountain to climb.

My favorite surfer once said, "The inability to describe something to me is a proof that it is fucking amazing. Is that amazing, is good enough for me." The sights that was awe inspiring, the scenery and the landscape that made me sonder the divinity of whom who created the creation, the folks that I've met and all of the good people I've been with along the experience is enough. All my experience wouldn't be the best if it wasn't for that exact fate that summoned up during the climb, and throughout the patterns of life, it is one of my favorites.

And in totality of all things, this is what I've realized:

And how is it consuming, to live without any sense of hope, that makes the trail from wishful thinking into reality? How many shores does it take to recall those beautiful moments of life, in each partaking vivid reflections of the universe itself in a meat coated jar? The lifestyle in which makes none a victim and that every vindicated sinner is forgiven. To which all tides are even and all the odds are among us that goes into silent suffering just to reach that place of ecstasy and euphoria.

Two thumbs up for the first triumph of the mountain top.

After each passing day, those sacrifices that we took, the bridges that we burned, the love that exist before, after and in between are mere reflections of ourselves and that we always try to remember but never took the time to forget those who which we are not.

And the origins of our existence will always be remembered by those who commit to letting go. And towards the sky, knowing somehow, somewhere, we would still be here after we die and that the realization of fulfilling oneself with the hope to be fully alive is the greatest mission we can ever accomplish as we are mere witnesses to the unknowingly, majestic place in which we breath, in which we live, in which love conquers all that exists from now until then.

With TOSOC Mountaineers Family!

1 An Extreme Super Viking Ride in SkyRanch Tagaytay.

Super Viking and Sky Eye 

When was the last time I experienced a death defying ride? If I’m not mistaken the first time was in Star City, a roller coaster ride with just a single 360 turn. And I’m sure I was second year high school and was like 14 years old or so. Yeah poor boy we don’t have a carnival like rides in the province because living there is like out of trends. So no wonder I started living a city kid life at a latter part of my childhood.

Next, I guess in Enchanted Kingdom with a bloody hell Space Shuttle ride. I’m good with forwards but with backwards? Oh darn, no words can explain the heart-breaking experience. And I was 23 years old that time? And I realized I’m not really fancy of heart pounding rides. If we do the math, nine freaking years without having an extreme carnival ride.

But! However! Nevertheless...

A year after it’s like a level up. I experienced the most, and I should say an extreme, supreme, life-threatening ride in my whole life. I experienced riding the Hair Raiser in Ocean Park Hong Kong. This roller coaster seated on top of the mountain, so what will you expect? Every manoeuvre, body twists is really terrifying. A kiss to death ride. Another one is The Flash, this ride almost turned my intestines crease, I just controlled myself not to vomit. Honestly I'm not gonna try it again.

Lunch at the Gerry's Grill with an overlooking view of Taal Lake.

Then, few months later back in the Philippines, I heard about the tallest ferris wheel in the country. SkynRanch is the newest attractions in Tagaytay owned by SM and part of expansion of the City's booming tourism. It also gains more fame as it is being featured in primetime news channels. And since we lived only few kilometers away from Tagaytay, so we decided to have a quick visit with the family. 

This theme park offers different ride such as horse-back riding, extreme Super Viking, Sky Eye, the country's tallest ferris wheel which stands 207 feet and a lot more. Entrance fee is P100 with 20% discount for Senior Citizen and PWD. Gazebo is also for rent for P750 and P1000 for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Overlooking view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano.

Unfortunately they don’t have ride-all-you-can-ticket to try all of them, which means you will need to buy ride individually. The most popular are Super Viking and Sky Eye. There are also available rides for the kids such as Mini Viking, Express Train and many more.

Ticket Prices are follows:

Nessi Coaster - P50, Red Baron - P50, Wonder Flight - P50, Mini Viking - P50, Carousel - P50, Express Train - P50, Super Viking - P100 and Sky Eye - P150.

Gigantic Sky Eye, the country's tallest ferris wheel.

I would like to try first the gigantic ferris wheel, however a little rain showers that time and the management decided to stop the Sky Eye operation. Not a good time though but I understand, for the safety of ride-goers. Its jut so sad that I missed the chance to see how Tagaytay looks like in 360 view. Oh well like the usual reason, there's always a reason to come back. Ek ek ek.

The Gazebos.

If not the Sky Eye and other rides that are intended for the kids, then Super Viking is the only choice. You can purchase tickets inside the theme park and sadly that would be another line. And if you wish to try more rides for your kids then make sure to get them all or else you will have to fall in line again.

We fell in line together and wait for our turn, the four of us with my 9-year-old niece patiently waiting while watching the first batch that is continuously shouting and screaming to the highest pitch. Scream for life! And that is added the excitement and the intense.

Our turn. We seated near the back portion so we really feel the intense. I was with my niece so whatever happen I can guide her. It started with back and forth slowly and while the clock ticks, it’s getting faster and faster and higher. People started to scream and so do i. After couple of minutes swinging my butt was already taken off from the flat so I know the strange is at peak. I dunno what were the words coming out from my mouth but I know I did all the ruthless expressions. Yikes. !@#$%^&*() !@#$%^&*()  !@#$%^&*() !@#$%^&*() !@#$%^&*() !@#$%^&*() !@#$%^&* !@#$%^&*

Until!

My niece was already crying, and I kept on telling her in the middle of swing that she will be fine, my biceps and triceps (oh ha!) pushing her breast so she will just stay in the backrest. But she really scared so we signaled the controller to stop the ride after only around 3 minutes of screaming, the entire Viking ride lasts for 10 minutes.

What the Face. #jomel

Overall I can feel the extreme ride of this Super Viking. Ride for your life and scream for your life. Even though we only last for 3 minutes yet the excitement, the intense is at peak. Super Viking must try at SkyRanch. When we get off, feels like we were drunk and theme park was spinning. Ah dizziness.

SkyRanch is the best escape and Tagaytay is quite near from Manila so fairly good enough to complete your weekend. Cool weather, best dines and a lot more attractions to visit.

0 Complete list of 40 Official Binibining Pilipinas 2014 Candidates Announced; Ms. Leonalyn D. Dela Cruz, certified UE Warrior to compete in BP2014.

The long wait is over. BPCI announced the 40 official candidates on January 27, 2014 from over a hundred hopefuls. The next question is who would be the next Bb. Pilipinas – Tourism, Bb. Pilipinas – Universe, Bb. Pilipinas – International, and Bb. Pilipinas – Supranational to represent the country in international pageant?

Among the 40 candidates, one of them is coming from the University of the East – Caloocan, my Alma Mater. Ms. Leonalyn D. Dela Cruz, an April 2012 graduate of BS Accountancy from the UE College of Business Administration – Caloocan. Ms. Dela Cruz is a certified public accountant, passed the CPA Board Examination of October 2012.

Leonalyn Dela Cruz, Binibining Pilipinas Official Facebook Account.

2 The Ultimate Binondo Food Trip; Year of the Wooden Horse 2014.

Year of the Wooden Horse on Chopsticks Art.

Should I say 2014 has just started? Year of the Wooden Horse in the Lunar Calendar just arrived last day of January. And Chinese culture has huge participation in the Philippine history right before Spanish and American occupation. They taught us the art of commerce and trading. Thus, “Chinoy” or Filipino Chinese range all over the country and most of them settled in the heart of the capital city – Manila. Indeed Manila Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594.

Your Lucky Charms and Crystals.

I am pure Filipino yet my heart pondered on Chinese heritage. My grandfather on mother side is pure Chinese; however I grew up with Filipino culture. That’s why business incline successively running on my blood. And Chinese influence has a huge space in my heart. I believe in Feng Shui and some sort of lucky charms.

Last Friday I was invited by Jherson Jaya of Lonely Travelogue, I was actually excited because another travel bloggers will going to meet. When I get off from work I decided not to go overtime as we need to meet by 2PM. I set my alarm by 12:30 so I have time to fix myself and sort of things. I dunno what happened, I’m sure I set my alarm but I really dunno if I turned it off unconsciously. I woke up around 4PM and decided not to go since I’m late and I have work that night. So please accept my sincerest apologies Idol for not coming in. My bad, hope there will still be next time.

Lucky Charm Pineapple Tassels.

Going forward, I thought I will never be ever partaken the celebration of Chinese New Year. It started 2013 and never expects to be in Binondo again on the same festivity after what happened yesterday. Deltek folks invited me to come along and it surely a go for me. After all it never too late to celebrate the year of Lunar Calendar.

And what else to expect when you are inside Manila Chinatown in the middle of Chinese festivity? Ah darn no need to think too much. Aside from buying lucky charms and crystals and different kind of statuettes is obviously food. Enough to put vivid label why but simply because we are Filipino.

The Laughing Buddha.

It's his year. The Year of the Wooden Horse.

And I’m sure I do not need to add pictures of our food tour. However to give you a summary of where we went and what have we tried, first stop is Shanghai Fried Siopao. It is located at the corner of Ongpin Street and Bahama Lane, it is served hot and the bottom part is slightly pan-fried. There’s meatball inside which you can taste mixed of meat and vegetables that makes this special siopao.

Next stop is Ongpin Mañosa located in the middle of Ongpin Street. They served different varieties of Noodles, Snacks, Soup and flavored Rice. Their price started from P100 – P200.

We started our food tour very early and yet I’m beginning to become quite full before it hits noon. And there are more food stops to taste to complete our food porn. We decided to visit Estero and try the most favorite froglegs, I have tried this already last year and I found it good. However for some reason they changed mind and would like to visit Wai Ying instead.  I haven’t tried there yet so I settled.

Unfortunately this small diner famous in roast duck is full and there are more people waiting piling outside the store. So we decided to check Tasty Dumplings instead located at the left side of San Lorenzo Church. Now that I have a reason to go back Binondo and check this most famous Wai Ying.

Likewise as Wai Ying, Tasty Dumplings is also crowded so we waited for like couple of minutes before get the table. I know I was very full that time but I still ordered the most favorite Pork Chop Rice for P125. It is located in Norberto Ty (Condesa) St. and they also offer different varieties of Rice Plates, Soup, Side Orders, Noodle/Bihon Soup, and some Frozen items. Their price started from P99 - P180.

Wishing Wall located on the left side of The Lucky Chinatown Mall.

DELTEK Folks!

I wish this year of the Wooden Horse Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity. But please remember that luck isn’t just a random gift, luck actually has less to do with what happens to you. It is more to do with what you think and how you act. I wish all the best in the store for you for the Year of the Horse. Again, Happy Chinese New Year 2014, Gong Xi Fa Cai!