Anawangin: The Tent City

01-02 May 2010. I did not sleep after arriving from Aurora because I found out that we were supposed to leave for our Division Teambuilding at 2:00 am. I only got roughly 4 hours to prepare (unpack and pack again) for Anawangin.

This trip almost did not materialize because of some fears about drowning and floating slippers which my officemates read from some blog warning people not to go to Anawangin, plus the low pressure area threatening to spoil our boat ride to the island. Thank God we were spared of that, and I still have my pair of tsinelas intact. But I don’t know if the lack of rain was a good thing or a bad thing because I never thought it would be as hot as summer in a tropical country in Anawangin. “Awan-Angin”-- Ilocano words coined to literally mean no wind (Awan Ti Hangin). And I never expected Anawangin, which I always thought as an island isolated and bereft of facilities, would be as crowded as Subic beaches on a regular summer day.

I’ve never been a fan of crowded beaches so Anawangin’s beauty was somehow eclipsed by the colorful tents beckoning in the beach front and the loads of city boys and girls looking for Starbucks and something else to do because of the lack of network signals and electricity.

So thank goodness there was something else to do other than sulk in the heat and stare at the crowd of half-naked men and bikini-clad women who seem to like walking in their garb rather than swimming in them. We walked on the crisscrossing trails, or paths of righteousness and wickedness as we like to call it (ang daang baluktot at matuwid, sabi nga ni Noynoy), which can be found in the forest of pine trees just after the sandbar that divides the sea and the river… or look for firewood while making sure we were still in the trail. Anawangin is actually a beautiful and unique place beset with pine trees and off-white sand, which, according to some, was the result of Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption. Pine trees and beaches don’t seem to go hand-in-hand, but that’s what you get with Anawangin. The lack of facilities is also not for the faint-hearted and maarte.

What made my day, though, was the short hike in the mountain just before sunset. I never thought I would be able to hike barefoot just to get a glimpse of a beautiful sunset from atop a mountain. (Buti na lang kasama ko si Barry at Jan as bodyguards.) The view was very calming indeed, and far from the madding crowd. I wish I can go back when there are only 5 tents perched on the beach front and no tents and hammocks on the forest of pine trees. Hiking to Anawangin is also a must-try.

Anawangin Sunset

Because I'm a sucker for sunsets, I hiked barefoot to get these shots.

... and because I have sweaty feet that it won't do to wear slippers while climbing steep paths, so I opted to go barefoot rather than slip to my untimely death.

 

 

The Aurora Experience: San Luis

30 April 2010 (Day 3). Our last day in Aurora was not to be spent on traveling back to the lowlands alone. We made sure to make the most out of it, so we welcomed Ma’am Ting Martinez’ (San Luis LGU Treasurer) invitation to take us to the Cunayan Falls.

The Cunayan Falls is just one of the waterfalls in the town of San Luis. Going there takes almost an hour of traversing rough, narrow roads through vehicle and a little bit of walking. The road going to the falls is privately-owned so there is a minimal entrance fee. The sound of the waterfalls and the clear, cool waters, were a welcome respite for city-folks like us. It was a refreshing treat just before our not-so-worry-free travel back to Pampanga. Thanks to Ma’am Ting (who promised to tour us again if we go back after the elections) for accommodating us despite her busy schedule.

We thought we won’t be able to go back home just in time for our teambuilding the next day. The last trip for the bus was still at 3:00 pm and we didn’t want to take chances in the non-air-conditioned buses because of their reputation for driving like there is no tomorrow. It’s a good thing the van completed its passenger requirement after more than 2 hours of waiting, so we took off at 1:00 pm and arrived in Cabanatuan less than 4 hours later. And we had to endure another 3 hours of commute (1 hour for waiting) back to Pampanga.

We got home safe and sound, and that's what's more important.

The Aurora Experience: Casiguran

29 April 2010 (Day 2). Four hours from Baler is a town called Casiguran. Before the concrete roads and bridges were constructed, travel time used to take days, and during rainy season, you might not even get a chance to go to Casiguran at all. The reason for our sojourn to this place is because the municipality of Casiguran was nominated for an award in line with the Streamlining Project In the Issuance of Mayor’s Permit, and we were to validate data submitted to us by the Provincial Validating Team.

We left Baler early in the morning hoping to get to Casiguran before lunch time and wishing to get a glimpse of the hidden wonders of this very isolated place. Before this trip, I searched the web for some natural attractions and chanced upon a virgin beach located in Sitio Casapsapan which I hoped to visit. After our official business with the LGU of Casiguran, our wish was granted and our very helpful partners from the Provincial Government of Aurora (Sir Val and Sir George) agreed to take us to Casapsapan Beach for a photo-op. The trip was really worth it. If we had enough time, I could’ve donned my swimwear and frolicked in the beach, but alas, the real world awaits, and the road back to Baler is long and rough, and we can’t afford to delay the trip since there is a part in Dinalungan that is hard to traverse when there is not enough daylight to guide you (think falling off a cliff.)

A big thanks to Sir Val, Sir George (our very skillful driver), and of course Sir Jennings of the Provincial Government of Aurora for arranging the vehicle (a newly-bought Toyota Innova which looked like it competed in a 4x4 challenge after our trip to Casiguran.) We didn’t mean to be the first-time users, it so happened that the original vehicle assigned to us was still in the shop. At least the vehicle was subjected to a really meticulous test drive and there is a still a 7-day warranty in case something happens to it. A million thanks also to Ate Emily of DTI-Aurora for accompanying us to the LGUs of San Luis and Casiguran and for the over-all coordination, and to Tita Cora of the PGA Guesthouse who treated us like her children during our stay in Baler. I take pride for being the first from the regional office (according to Ate Ems) to go to Casiguran. I hope I can go back, this time for leisure.

The Aurora Experience: Baler

28 April 2010 (Day 1). Going to Aurora has always been a dreaded assignment for most of us DTI-3 associates (save for my officemate Jan who was so excited to go but was not permitted to join us) because: 1) our office vehicles are not allowed to go further than the outskirts of Nueva Ecija (the province before Aurora) for fear of not returning in one piece; 2) due to reason no. 1, associates are forced to ride the bus from Cabanatuan City which takes four hours to arrive in Baler (capital town of Aurora), and if you’re lucky enough, catch the last trip (which is usually before lunch time) and get a good seat, which is rare, because on some unfortunate days you’ll either get a seat at the back of the bus which sort of feels like being stuffed in a blender, or get stuck in the bus’ aisle with a monoblock chair with nothing to support your back while being bordered by loads of boxes threatening to fall down on your head when the road starts to get rough; and 3) when it rains, you might actually get stuck in Aurora or on the road while waiting for the heavy equipment to clear the roads buried by mudslides.

Luckily, this is no longer the case, as most of the roads leading to Baler are now concretized (but getting good bus seats is still a matter of good timing). On my nth time (I’ve lost count) going to Baler on official business, I told myself that this time, I’ll make the most out of it. So I did, and with the help of my officemate Toti who coaxed me to brave the rough waters of the beach in Baler, I tried my best not to be swallowed by the waves, which was actually a thrill. And for the first time since I went to Baler, I was able to take a dip in the surfer-friendly waters. Now, I wish I could surf. But then I have to practice swimming first.

But of course, before the leisure, we did our job and went to San Luis LGU to do what we were supposed to do. Sorry, but the official photos will not be posted here.

Sunrise and Sunset in Bohol

My trip wouldn't be complete without seeing one beautiful sunset or sunrise and making sure that it is well documented. Good thing I was able to take shots before my digicam totally broke down (CCD problem according to a Canon employee). Poor camera, must have taken such a beating. I need to have it fixed before the next outing. And yes, I woke up early to see the sunrise.

Panglao and Balicasag Islands

March 30-April 1, 2008. We stayed in Dumaluan Beach Resort in Panglao Island but we also walked to nearby Bohol Beach Club for some of our photo-ops. We missed riding the banana boat by about ten minutes since the office at Bohol Beach Club closed down minutes before we got there, so we just experimented on kung-fu fighting scenes and buried my brother in the sand. On our first day in the island we also went dolphin watching before heading to Balicasag Island to snorkel and swim. I wish some days wouldn't end. I really miss Bohol (sigh).

Chocolate Hills in Bohol

March 29, 2008. I thought it would be possible to climb one of the hills thinking it was small. I was wrong. So we just flew over them instead. :p Yup, we flew (hehehe). No photoshop editing here, just camera tricks.

Windy and Far-Flung Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

October 28-29, 2007. The last stop to our Ilocos trip, though we spent less than 24 hours in this place. From Vigan City we had to ride a bus to Laoag City for an hour and a half, then another hour and a half to Pagudpud. We arrived at Polaris Beach Resort in Barangay Saud at past 5pm with light rain tailing us. From the town of Bangui (where the windmills are), you'll already feel the strong winds and see the cloudy skies ahead. I almost expected a storm ('cause that's how it felt like). The owner of the resort said that the gloomy weather is normal in Pagudpud in the months of October to December. Nevertheless, its no bad timing for me as I was able to get good shots of the beach and the weather's just fine with the sun hiding behind the clouds. Good thing the rain was light enough to ignore. The waves though are too strong even at low tide, its a bit scary swimming specially if you're not that good like me (that's South China Sea for you).




Despite the delay in arriving at the resort and a few glitches with the resort's service (paghintayin ba naman ang mga gutom), we were able to enjoy the last hours of our stay, though we weren't able to see the Cape Bojeador lighthouse and the Bangui Windmills up close as there wasn't enough time for a side trip. The long walk to the rocky beach past Saud Beach Resort and all the other hotels was comforting because of the view and the windy weather. I don't even remember seeing most of the sights though I've been to Pagudpud 7 years ago. Perhaps the weather gives it a different look... or maybe its more developed now that's why its a bit unrecognizable apart from its golden sands and strong waves.



We almost got delayed checking out of the resort because we couldn't get enough of the view. I took more than 200 shots in Pagudpud beach alone... and that's only in a span of 3 hours. Our swimming time was only about 20 minutes on our way back to the resort, and we forgot to apply sunblock. We thought we wouldn't be able to swim because of the weather, but with a beach as beautiful as this, who could resist?

The Ilocos Highway

The road to Ilocos is long and winding and filled with great sights. Its a nature lover's delight that's why I barely slept during the long ride.

Ilocos Sunset

I love sunsets. That's why even if we were on the move, I just had to take a picture. One of the benefits of riding a mini-bus is you get to take good pictures without the window glass' reflection. Its hard to catch a perfect shot from a moving vehicle... I wasn't able to get a good shot in Pagudpud because the sun's almost gone when we got there (really long ride) and it was a bit cloudy.

The Charm of Old World Vigan

October 27-28, 2007. Arriving in Vigan after 8 hours of travel from Dau (with minimal sleep and still with OPES hangover), we went straight to Grandpa's Inn for our breakfast.

Our itinerary for the morning was to pass by the Heritage Site and go straight to Sta. Maria and back to Vigan for a night cap. I've always wanted to enjoy Vigan at night what with the full moon and the soft lights... very romantic, quaint and old world. Shopping for pasalubong can wait the next day. I had fun taking pictures during the night walk... I even met new playmates who gamely posed in front of the camera. The night didn't only reveal the splendor of the old city, it also revealed some of its oldest residents (see those orbs?). My sister (who's kind of clairvoyant) even saw a kapre in one of the photos.

 We dined at Cafe Leona right at the end of Calle Crisologo. Their tables have been set outside the streets so you really get that Vigan feel while eating. I also like their menu--you get to choose between Thai, Italian, Japanese and Filipino food. Talk about variety (best for food lovers like us).

The next morning was scheduled for shopping. We were supposed to check out at 10 am because we had to travel 3 more hours and take two more buses to Pagudpud but we ended up leaving the place at 12 noon. It's hard to leave the place without taking a second look, though this is already my second time in Vigan after almost 7 years. Buti na lang 1 GB ang memory card or else there won't be pictures of Pagudpud. My Canon's first outing was really worth it.

 

Historic Ilocos Churches

October 26-29, 2007. An Ilocos tour would not be complete without seeing its historic churches. We weren't able to cover them all, but we were lucky enough to see three of these landmarks: Sta. Maria Church, St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral and Laoag's Sinking Bell Tower.



The Sta. Maria Church in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur was built in 1769 and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. A very picturesque church in a quiet town. If my digicam's battery wasn't drained, there would've been more shots. Thank God for my SE W800i or else there wouldn't be any pictures of this church to post.

 

St. Paul's Cathedral is located in Vigan City. It was built by the Augustinian friars and has a "distinct "Earthquake Baroque" style of the Ilocos region and features Neo-Gothic and pseudo Romanesque motifs," according to www.dotpcvc.gov.ph. The full moon gave the night shots an eerie feel, and if you look closely you'll see orbs. Spooky.


Seeing the Sinking Bell Tower was only by accident as we we only made a stopover to Laoag City for half an hour before going to Pagudpud. We only ate a quick lunch (at 3:00 pm) before proceeding to the bus terminal. Good thing I remembered to buy my contact lens solution from an optical shop which incidentally sits in front of the bell tower. So I got my digicam and took some photos. If you find the shots a bit off-center, that's because the Sinking Bell Tower sinks an inch every year, much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa... But the good thing is it's still working just like the bell tower in Sta. Maria. Unfortunately, the Sinking Bell Tower is 85 meters away from the church so we weren't able to get a peek at St. William's Church, which is older than the Paoay Church also located in Ilocos Norte.

If churches here were as beautiful as these ones, I'd probably hear mass everyday. =)

Pristine Pinsal Falls

Located in Barangay Babal-lasioan, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, Pinsal Falls became part of our itinerary during our weekend Ilocos getaway last October 26-29, 2007. Thanks in part to the MNTC calendar hanging in my room that I found out of its existence.

More than an hour away from Vigan City, Pinsal Falls can be reached through the Municipality of Sta. Maria. From the town proper, it is almost an hour's tricycle ride away. Its location is really remote that you can't help but wonder how special it could be to be hidden from mortal eyes. Yet when we got there, we found out that locals practically pass by it in going to and from Pilar, Abra, hence the steep stone steps which reminds me of the path of Cirith Ungol in the Lord of the Rings.

Boat ride to the falls is only Php15 per person, but you have to wait a long time for other passengers. One of the locals even told us about the hot springs at the topmost part, but we weren't able to get there and soak in it for lack of time... and lack of boat to take us back. There was only one boat traversing the calm river to the falls when we were there and we seem to be the only tourists.

If only we got there a little bit earlier, then there'd probably be plenty of time for a few more hikes... But then again, there's always another time.