Sinulog is Philippines Best Festival

I couldn't remember how the Sinulog started, but I remember very well when I was a kid, we always look forward to the Festival every January.  When I was a kid, I didn't know the exact date but I always make a note that it falls in January every year.  Later on when I was old enough to go with friends I knew then that it would fall every 3rd Sunday of January.

I remember back then we would camp overnight at an Uncles office building the night before the festival to ensure we will not get into traffic on the day and we will be able to set up our viewing platform within the festival route and get the best view of the participants and presentations.  Back then our parents would not allow us to get on the street, as there were a lot of people and kids easily would get lost in the crowd.  There was also a tradition that Sinulog dancers and participants would paint themselves black all over their body that you can only make out their eyes and teeth and then they would wipe other people on the street with their hands, specially those wearing white t-shirts and it would be very difficult to remove the black stains from clothing and even the black stains wiped in the faces would take days to remove completely.  Some people would go to school or work with black stains on their faces the following day.

As a child we were just contented to watch the festival from the roof top of the building, we were so afraid to get near those mascots parading on the streets, we locals call "Higante".  My parents would tell us that if we are bad kids the "Higante" will eat us.  From a distance we would be in awe of those kids dancing on the street carrying the image of the Sto. Nino (the child Jesus).  The well decorated floats parading the streets with some beautiful ladies in their glittering gowns waving and holding the image of the Sto. Nino.  It was a dream for every child to do it one day.

As the years went by, Sinulog has grown bigger, the costumes of the participants, the contingents were getting bigger, neighboring islands and cities started participating and spending a lot of money for a once in a year participation.  The street dancing were getting longer, before the street dancing is done by 6pm.  But now it could go on until midnight to even the wee hours.  The prices of the winning entries are becoming bigger.  More and more people come visit the festival every year.

I am a proud Cebuano who is also proud to say that Sinulog is the country's Best Festival.  Sinulog Festival falls every 3rd Sunday of January, it is part of the celebration of the Feast of the Child Jesus - our Beloved Sto. Nino.

     

Kawasan Falls, Badian Cebu

One of my good  friend Stephanie and I decided to get out of town, so we went to visit my Grannies place in Badian (southern town in Cebu, Philippines) where Kawasan Falls is located, even thought I was there 3 times in summer this year, it never grow old on me.  I always love going there. The waterfalls always makes me feel like I am in paradise.  Stefi, who was extending her stay in Philippines volunteered to drive us.  So, we packed camping tents, pillows and blankets, we really didnt know where we will stay for the night, but it doesnt matter.  I just want to get out of the city.  We were on the road for 3 hours until we reached the town of Badian.  This town is really close to my heart - this is were my mom was born and raised. 

first level waterfalls

We stopped by at the Badian Public Market to gather some food supplies, at least we know we have something in case we cant find a place for dinner.  Stefi brought her 2 year old kid - Crista with us, so we prefer to be safe than sorry.  The market was a typical town market, with live stocks and mostly home made produce, the good thing is there were a lot of fresh fruits and they were cheaper compared to the ones we get in the City and a much better quality.  When we got to Matutinao (the actual place of the waterfalls), it was almost 5pm, so we decided to find a place near the waterfalls and head to the falls early in the morning.  It would be difficult for us to go up to the waterfalls with a kid when its about to get dark, the road can be slippery and dangerous. It wouldn't be fun.  

second level waterfalls

We woke up very early the following morning, perhaps it was the excitement but I was thinking it was the growing noise of the waves splashing on the rocks just outside our beach front cottage.  But whether it was excitement or not, believe I was itching to go the moment I stood up from the bed.  So, we head to the waterfalls right away, we skirted our way following the source of the river.  Crista was getting excited too, she kept asking if we were there yet.  I could sense her excitement as well as irritation every time we passed on something that resembles a waterfalls in a piled up rocks in the river and she thinks we are there but then gets disappointed that we still have to walk further more.

Little Crista

We walked for about 20 minutes and we arrived to the first level waterfalls, it is beautiful and high, higher than the waterfalls from the other levels.  When we got there, there were already people who reserved cottages and some already started swimming.  We were thinking we will be the first to arrive there and get the best spot - it would feel like we outsmart everyone else, but we were late.  Anyway, we went up further to the second level waterfalls. It was a steep climb and luckily we had Alan with us to carry Crista when it gets really steep.  Although, we were already panting with our tongue out when we reached the second level, we were very happy that we were the first to get there.  I guess people only stay on the first level to avoid the climb.  

Alan and Crista

We swam a bit on the second waterfalls and then decided to go up to the third level.  It was a steeper climb, at some point we had to stop to gather our energy and then walk again.  When we got to the third level, I was about to die.  I didn't know if it was the heat of the sun or my trembling knees that felt like I just climbed Mt. Fuji.  But after a dip in the water, I felt refreshed and energized again.  The water was so cool and the swimming area is much better compared to the other levels. The day went by like a flash and we really enjoyed out time at Kawasan Falls.  And even if I been there many times before I could still go there with excitement many times over, again and again.  The only thing is that there are a lot of mosquitos in the area, so you either keep moving or stay in the water.  Also, there are people local people following you all the time.  It's get very intimidating that it feels like someone is watching your every move and then they keep asking you to try the bemboo raft and then tell you to pay for it, some of them will keep following you and then assume that they are your tour guide and ask you a certain fee.  So be clear that you dont want their assistance in the beginning.  Don't be fooled!

The Kawasan Falls just recently voted as the Best Waterfalls in the Philippines 2016.

Aaron Beach Resort Oslob, Cebu

sign board on the roadside

We came across this resort from the sign board just by the road side, actually just outside the resort.  We came without reservations so, It was a good idea to arrive before sundown at least we are able to find a place to stay overnight before it gotten dark.

The resort has very limited available rooms and we were very happy that they still have available for us.  We were told that most tourists usually doesnt stay overnight, most visit early morning and leave in the afternoon, so they dont really need a room to sleep, except those that are coming over on a backpack without reservations. I started thinking they were referring to us.

This resort is slightly better than the one in Badian. The room was a little smaller, although in a way it is similar coz the activities are limited to the beach and rooms, however we thought this resort is better since they offer an option of scuba diving.  Not bad for a very small resort. Actually we aren’t even sure if we can call this a resort, it is more like a vacation house with extra rooms.

Beach front at Aaron Beach resort

Apparently it is owned by a couple, the guy is Australian and the wife is a native from Oslob.  They settled down in Australia hence leaving the house to the wifes family who converted it into a resort. It is just by the beach and along the mainroad so the location is really ideal. And about a few meters from the shore, is the whaleshark watching site.

 Like anywhere else we been so far, the people here are very friendly and they didn’t mind that we cook our own food if we are up to it, but we are too lazy to do it.  They have a simple plastic laminated menu and they can cook for us whatever we want, if its not on the menu.  I think it’s convenient and really felt homey.

This place is cheap too, it’s only P800 (18USD) per room per night and its airconditioned, the only thing is that there is no internet connection and even mobile phone signal was on and off. But still it was a great bargain.

Check Aaron Beach Resort here

Viva Las Vegas Show Mactan

Ari Patalinghug and Me with the entertainers

I was invited by a good friend from High School to check out Viva Las Vegas Show located in Brgy. Basak Lapu Lapu City.  Ari Patalinghug a friend of mine was invited by the owner/manager Sir Noel for a fun filled evening of show and buffet dinner.

The night was young and it was the weekend I did give it a try.  I knew this place for a while because I heard about it from some friends, however I have never been in, so I had no clue what to expect.  I was under the impression that it will be another one those cultural variety show that is very common in most comedy bars these days.  They would sing and dance and make fun of the audience, however I was wrong.

Add caption

When Ari and I arrived at the venue, we were warmly welcomed at the door and ushered to our seat by a very pleasant and beautiful lady.  It was really a nice experience and we feel that we were VIP.  Then the manager/owner greeted us, made his introduction and sat us down.  While everyone else were seated, we took photos and the beautiful ladies poses with us and volunteered to take photos too.

A few moments and the seats behind us were almost full, we were explained the food offerings and then we were lead to the mouth watering buffet.  The food was simple but the display was appetizing and the display was never out of food, which makes you feel that the staff are attentive and well trained.  There is always someone that explains and assists you when you need.

After our yummy dinner, the show started.  It was amazing.  The choreography, costumes, the talents and special effects, it has blown us away.  I couldn't stop talking about it.  My friend Ari was the same, we really enjoyed it and would highly recommend this to friends and other who are looking for something enjoyable in Cebu.

I would like to highlight that Sir Noel is such a great host and very pleasant to talk to and so as all of his staff.  Great Show!!!

Come to Viva Las Vegas Mactan and Sir Noel said "Viva Las Vegas Show Mactan offers Las Vegas type shows, dances and variety-comedy.  Local cultural dances are also incorporated to the variety show and performers are clad in glamorous and exotic costumes.  We also serve native Filipino food while watching the show."

What are you waiting for, visit Viva Las Vegas Mactan, the show starts at 7:00pm Local time.  Enjoy and have fun.  Trust me this one will not disappoint.

Their facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/Vivalasvegasmactan/

Renting a motorcycle in Bohol

Michael Zabate and Ethelyn Albano on the scooter

It was 3.30pm when we reached Tagbilaran port, the sun was still shining and we could really feel the summer heat already consuming our excitement.  Before the boat made a complete stop most of the passengers were already standing and ready to disembark.  I thought it was ridiculous because we all have to disembark anyway.  It seems that everyone was doing it, except for us and some few foreigners who were also wondering what people were doing.

We waited until most of the people left the boat and we didn’t have to get into a line to get out of the boat.  Once we were outside, there were many people with signage greeting us, representing their hotels/resorts.  We still didn’t know where to stay so we just completely ignored them and headed to the exit.  Along the way there were people who were asking us if we would like to hire a van, taxi or tricycle.  Our minds were already made up and we wanted to hire a motorcycle.

Some part of the port is under construction, so I wasn’t sure where we can find a motorcycle for hire.  There were a line of tricycle and drivers were also hanging around waiting for passengers and I asked some of them where we can hire motorcycles.  They pointed me to the security guard at the port, a little hut in the middle of the road before taking a turn to the port. 

Me and Joey Carey

The security guard was very polite, and when I asked about the motorcycle rented he immediately told us he will call someone.  When he did not get an answer he told us he will just go and pick up his friend that owns the motorcycle.  We waited about 5 minutes and he showed up with the motorcycle and the owner.  My partner negotiated the price and we got 2 scooters for 500 Pesos per day each.

It is easy to rent a motorcycle in Bohol, all you need is to sign a paper agreeing with the price per day and leave a valid ID and pay the total amount.  And we were off driving to Panglao.  I was a bit worried that the scooter did not come with helmets, but in Bohol you can drive around without it.

The route is also easy either you asked the locals how to get there, get a local map from the Port or activate your GPS.  Google map is a big help, but if your phone is running out of battery, you can opt to use an app called MAPS, it doesn’t consume as much battery compared to google maps.

The motorcycle that we rented had no gasoline included so we had to stop at the nearest gasoline station on our way to Panglao.  We had it full for 100 Pesos.  20 Minutes later we reached the beach area of Panglao, it is much cheaper to rent a motorcycle than to commute.  And you have all the freedom to go anywhere you want, anytime you want.  Our next task was to look for a hotel by the beach.  

Getting to Bohol from Cebu

Jeny Obregon, Joey Carey, Michael Zabate,
Ethelyn Albano and EJ

And summer is here again.  My friends and I were planning on were to get away for the weekend at the start of summer.  There were so many places in mind and plans that we were not really sure if it will materialize.  They said that if you make a lot of plans it most likely remain a plan.

So enough of the plans, we just pack our bags and head to Bohol.  It isn't so far away, we just had to take a fast craft for 2 hours and we are there.  There are a few choices the oceanjet, supercat and there were also boats that perhaps would take longer than just two hours.  We reached Cebu Pier 1 at around 1:00pm.  We did not made reservations nor purchased a ticket before heading there.  It was pretty easy.  Although the line to purchase the ferry ticket was long.  I guess most people were also heading there for the summer.

At the Supercat Ethelyn Albano, Jeny Obregon & Joey Carey

Another friend of mine who is from Bohol suggested we take Oceanjet fast ferry.  So, that was the first one we checked out when we got to the pier area, however the departure was for another hour, so we decided to take the Supercat.  The fare was the same, 500 Pesos for one-way per adult and 380 Pesos for kids 7 years and below.  They told us that the fare would be cheaper if the ticket was purchased a few days ahead.  How much? I have no idea.  500 Pesos is not bad.  I was told the fare was 800 Pesos but we were glad it was only 500 Pesos (Tourist Class).   And then there is a terminal fee of 25 Pesos per person and kids are exempted.

At the Supercat EJ and Michael Zabate

We took the Supercat at 1.45pm from Cebu. Due to our excitement, we forgot that we have not had lunch before going on board.  We also didnt have much choice coz the ferry was about to leave when we got the tickets.  My partner  Joey was too hungry and my friend Ethelyn Albano's child EJ too, luckily the cabin crew were selling some finger foods and packed lunch so we took 5 packs.  Each packed was 120 Pesos, it was really expensive for the food you get but we didn't have a choice.  We did took it to experience that next time, we will eat before or pack our own food before boarding.

We reached Tagbilaran Port at about 3.30pm, it was a smooth ride.  And we are ready for our summer get away.   

You're Mine!

All my life I have been yearning of someone, who would one day sweep me off my feet.  Love me when I’m normal and still love me when I don’t even love myself – I know this is hard to find, because I know very well there are times that I am not really loveable, and that happens a lot.  But I am also proud that when I love someone, I care a lot.  Too much sometimes I choke the other person.  May not always translate to love but I do my best to show I care and I love.

There came a point in my life before that I was convinced that maybe I should stop looking for that someone, I should just settled for someone I had at the moment.  The head said Yes but the heart keeps saying NO! Until I met you again.  A year before we met, I prayed to God so hard that I want to see a sign from him.  I want him to give me a sign if I found what I was looking for, “a kiss in the forehead’.  Which you have given me, you may not remember it.  But I did and it matters.

photo by :pixabay

At first, I was not convinced and then second I was scared – really shit scared.  I know how it was to be hurt and I am very careful not to go through the same emotion moving forward.  But then I realized, If I had the courage to fight for the wrong person in the past, why should I hesitate to fight for the person that I was asking from God for.  If I wouldn’t I would not know what real love is.  If I let it go, I will never have the chance to share my life with ‘the one’. 

So, who cares if I get hurt in the process of loving you.  Who cares if we fight a lot, If I cry, if you hurt me unintentionally. I don’t care anymore.  I want to spend my life with you. I feel at home with you, it has always been you.  Sorry your heart is locked and I have the key.

What happened to Boracay Island?

While I’m sure not many people would agree to my opinion, this is what I think and please feel free to make a comment if you disagree with what I’m about to write here.

About 20 years or more ago, boracay island is one of the places you must visit in the Philippines, not only that it has the best sunset scenery, beautiful white beach but also laid back, relaxing and CLEAN.  But that was then.  Some people would recall Boracay to be a dream vacation, a long lost paradise.

Now however, it still has its beautiful sunsets but you will be shocked to find out that the white beach is packed with so many people you can’t imagine where to find a place to relax on the beach. There are thousands of people sharing it with you day or night along with plastic bottles and whatsoever afloat on shore and on the sand. There are also so many individuals on your beach walks that would offer you expensive services from scuba diving, parasailing, boat trips, massages, etc.  Sometimes it’s helpful but most times it’s annoying and then you found out later that if you go directly to an establishment for their service you pay a much lesser price.

It’s a great party place though if this is what you only want on vacation, however it becomes monotonous after 2 to 3 nights, every where you go offers the same or similar things, fire dancers everywhere, hookas (shishas), dancing and drunk tourists, so there isn’t really special about it after you’ve toured it in one night.

There are pretty much garbage everywhere, and what's more disturbing was during rainy season the drainage would over flow, it would smell on the beach front and sidewalks in the main road. This would mean that the beach is dirtiest when it rains as the stream would go to the beach from the drainage.

I was also confused that the peddlers or people selling peanuts or the famous “balut” were not allowed on the beach front but beggars are everywhere. Does this mean begging is allowed instead? I’m sure it is not. However, they still exist everyday and I haven’t seen anyone while I was there that has taken any action to remove those beggars there or enhance the way they live as I understood that they are really the original inhabitants of Boracay.

There are so many hotels and establishments under construction everywhere you go on the island and I cannot imagine how it will become soon.  Already with what it has now it is already very crowded and dirty. Imagine adding more to it. I hope the local government would do something to this trend as well as have a plan to preserve what’s left of this once an island paradise. 

It's funny that I wrote this blog a few years ago and the Philippine government has closed down the island for rehabilitation only this year.  That means for many years people have been swimming in a sea of shit.  Im glad Boracay is now being rehabilitated to preserve the natural beauty of the island.

Update Feb 25, 2015 : High Bacteria levels found in Boracay water