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.

Help Cebu and Bohol

More than 340,000 person fled their home in Bohol after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Visayas last October 15, 2013.  As they cope with aftershocks and try to rebuild their homes and livelihood, they need water, food, medicine, tents, blankets and other basic supplies. Anything you can spare may save someone's life.

How can we help??

To donate cash, please visit Sun-Star Cebu Main office on P. del Rosario St., Cebu City or deposit your donations in any of these accounts:

• Aboitiz Foundation (Union Bank of the Philippines Acct No. 10026-1070944)
• Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation (BPI Acct No. 9081-0019-41)
• Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (Union Bank of the Philippines Peso Acct No. 002780003279)
• University of Cebu (BDO Ayala Cebu, Acct Name: University of Cebu Acct No. 2420075958)

To drop off donations in cash or in Kind, please visit any of these locations:

• ABS-CBN Kapamilya Relief Campaign : Near Fuente Osmena in Cebu City and in their broadcast complex in Jagobiao, Mandaue City
• Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Commerce and Industry St. North Reclamation Area (contact Nova Cruz @ 232-1421 up to 24, local 107)
• Cebu Home and Builders Centre, AS Fortuna St. Mandaue City (343-6991 or 230-377)
• Cebu Transplant Network (268-2422), Borromeo Building, across Cebu Doctors' Hospital
• Department of Social Welfare and Development 7, Brgy Carreta, Cebu City
• Department of Education 7 in Sudlon, Brgy. Lahug, Cebu City
• GMA Kapuso Foundation, GMA complex Busay, Cebu City
• Irie Gastropubliko Resto, IT Park
• Islands Stay hotels and stores
• Lily Mesina's residence, near San Vicente Parish on Urgello St. Cebu City (contact Therese Mesina -  0917-3202820) 
• Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc, Lopez Jaena St. Brgy. Parian. Cebu City
• SM City Cebu  Operation Tulong booth Main mall, lower ground floor near Country Crafts
• University of the Philippines - Cebu BA Political Science Batch 1989 (Contact 09192710439)
• University of Cebu Banilad Campus
• Yakski Barbeque, Don Mariano Cui St., Cebu City near NBI 7 (414-2008)

source : Sun Star Daily

Help Visayas Earthquake Victims

In line with the recent earthquake that struck Visayas, most especially Cebu and Bohol provinces, we encourages everyone to share their resources by volunteering in or sending donations through various government agencies or non-government organizations that undertake relief operations and medical missions in badly hit areas. 

Let us all do our share now.

PLEDGE OR DONATE food, water, clothes, sleeping materials and medicines.  VOLUNTEER to pack relief goods or even to help distribute goods at relief operations and medical missions.

Contact these groups to sign up or send your donations.

Philippine Red Cross
Bonifacio Drive Port Area Manila
Tel. No. +63 2 527 0575
www.redcross.org.ph/donate

ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc. Bldg.
Mother Ignacia Ave. corner E. Lopez St. Brgy. South Triangle, QC
Tel No. +63 2 415 2272 loc. 3765 or +63 2 4114995
email: sagip@abs-cbn.com

Aboitiz Foundation
Danny Cerence (Coordinator) Tel No. +63 917 630 8172
Rowena Astillo (Donations) Tel No. +63 917 630 4484
Union Bank of the Philippines Acct. No. 10026-1070944
City Savings Bank Account No. 200-20031301
www.aboitizfoundation.org

God Bless!

Home of Love (Orphanage) - Livelihood Program

I have been supporting the Home of Love orphanage for a while now, with whatever little financial support that I could manage.  However since Loquito and I went to the center, we promised Sr. Margaret that we do something that would help the cause of the Pink Nuns!  So, we got hold of some information about their Livelihood Project and we would like to share this to friends, relatives and anyone that are generous enough to share their blessings to needy kids at the center.  I will detail the project as written by Sr. Margaret below.

Home of Love Livelihood Program in Sewing and Baking
Location : Bagasawe, Tuburan, Cebu, Philippines
Owned by: Immaculate Mary Queen of Heaven Missionaries
General Suerior and Foundress :Sr Ma. Corazon J. Salazar, MQHM
Center Head/Directress : Sr. Ma. Marjorie May C. Torion, MQHM

Current Beneficiaries at the Center : Total 31

Brief Project Background:

MQHM Rehabilitation and Livelihood Training Center or the so-called Home of LOVE is a shelter for women and girls victims of prostitution and human traficking.  The MQHM Sisters dedicate their lives in the rescue of prostitutes together with their children dependents which they call "clients".  The center offers a holistic rehabilitation programs and services are committed for the total healing and renewal of the clients (see Fight on Prostitution). One of its programs is to provide the livelihood of the clients while they are undergoing rehabilitation. It is the way in which these women and young girls will earn while continuing their rehabilitation program in the shelter. At present there are 18 clients who are studying the sewing and dress making course. The center aims to provide the livelihood project of sewing this year. At the same time they will also study the skills in baking breads, pastries and cakes. The women who will be awarded this program will receive its equivalent compensation. They will be sewing school uniforms that have an established market. Their income will be put on savings while they remain dependent in the center. This will be given to the clients by the time they will go home and live independently. 

Home of Love has created this project to support the needs of its clientele. These women and girls survivors of prostitution and abused own nothing but they still have the chance to regain back their lost dignity. MQHM believes that after the successful rehabilitation of its clientele, they will become productive members of our society. All they need is our loving and faithful support in their goal of changing their lives. The livelihood program will ensure better future for these women and their children.

EXISTING LIVELIHOOD EQUIPMENT FOR SEWING
1. Singer Household Machine (second hand) – 2 units
2. Portable Sewing Machines (second hand) – 2 units
3. Juki High speed machine (reconditioned) – 1 unit

EXISTING LIVELIHOOD EQUIPMENT FOR BAKING

1. Industrial Oven 3 Layers

PROJECTED ESTIMATED PROJECT COST

1. SEWING EQUIPMENTS Brand New Slightly Used

1.1 JUKI single needle machine with complete set – 3 units
a. Brand new P 23,000.00 x 3 units P 69,000.00
b. Slightly used P 16,500.00 x 3 units P49,500.00

1.2 JUKI (4 threads) Edging Machine with complete set – 2 units
a. Brand new P 52,000.00 x 2 units P 104,000.00
b. Slightly used P 28,000.00 x 2 units P56,000.00

1.3 JUKI Buttonholer Machine with complete set – 1 unit
a. Brand new P 180,000.00 x 1 unit P 180,000.00 Slightly used 
b. P 80,000.00 x 1 unit P80,000.00

1.4 Eastsun 5” Cutting Machine – 2 units
a. Brand new P 24,000.00 x 2 units P48,000.00
b. No second hand P48,000.00

TOTAL PROJECT COST OF BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT 
P 401,000.00  (Four hundred one thousand pesos.) 

TOTAL PROJECT COST OF SLIGHTLY USED EQUIPMENT
P 233,500.00 (Two hundred thirty-three thousand five hundred pesos.)

2. BAKING EQUIPMENT

2.1 Heavy Duty Mixer 10 Liters - 1 unit P 49,000.00

2.2 Dough Shetter 125,000.00

2.3 Baking Plates – 20 pcs x P500.00 10,000.00

2.4 Cooling Rack (quotation to follow) -

2.5 Baking Pans/Molders (estimate only) 10,000.00

TOTAL PROJECT COST
P 194,000.00 (One hundred ninety-four thousand pesos.)

Prepared by:

SR. MA. MARJORIE MAY C. TORION, MQHM

To anyone interested to share their blessings or donate to Home of Love you may contact Sr. Mary Margaret through email : sr_margaret2013@gmail.com or you get hold of their office in Talisay, Cebu. Otherwise send me a comment on here and I will ensure the Sisters will contact you.  God Bless!


MQHM Center Contact details
Home of Love Contact details

Driving back to Opon (Lapu-Lapu City)

Loquito and I left the Home of Love just before sunset, we were both happy as well as sad.  We dont know which one of it was more but I felt I left my heart in the Home of Love.  I kept thinking about what I can do to help the children, how I can help to make their lives better, although despite the situation, they gave Loquito and I their warmest and the most sincere hugs and smiles.  There was nothing like it.  When you see the twinkle in their eyes the moment they see you looking at them and then they shy away hiding behind the Pink Nun, some of them vibrant enough to giggle. "Sigh"

the pink nuns and their beneficiaries at the orphanage

The drive back was long and silent.  We haven't been to that part of Cebu and we had no clue if we were on the right road.  We passed Balamban town center and we were amazed that on the mountain top there are shopping malls.  It was not something we thought of or expected to see.  I was under the impression that it would be a typical market with livestocks and a lot of vegetables.  Well - I was wrong!  We drove for about 2 hours and we got into a very dark road without lights.  I couldn't make out were exactly we were, my phone signal was on and off and the road was uphill, going down, blind curve and ranges from dark to super dark.  We could see some lights flickering from a distance, I could only think that those were lights from the houses on the mountain.  There were very few cars, in fact - it was only us and then some random motorbike from time to time with 4-5 people on it. I got a little scared at some point, but I didn't tell Loquito that - otherwise there will be two of us uncertain on this road trip of insanity, but in all honestly  I really didn't know if we will make it back to Cebu City that night or we will just camp by the road side and wait til day light.  At some point I knew Loquito was also uncertain if we took the right road, he kept asking me if I know where we were.  A few more minutes and we were on a road that I was familiar with, we reached Barangay Busay and then Nivel Hills in Lahug and the torture in my head started to subside.

We covered the north Cebu by road

We drove back in the city and back to Mactan Island or Opon (old name of Lapu-lapu city).  It was almost midnight when we arrived and both of us lost the appetite to eat but we were both up for a massage.  We were lucky that we saw one on our way to hotel and most customers were already gone, so there were massage therapists available. The massage was for an hour and it was the best massage I've ever had, although it may not be that good in other times but this time it was heaven.  After traveling, with what felt like the end of the world, it was a great treat to ourselves.  By then we had already completed our Cebu North Road Trip.  I dozed off to sleep, with the children's happy thoughts and the beginning of a new adventure for tomorrow. 

Home of Love (Orphanage) in Tuburan Cebu

When we arrived at the Home of Love, at first we were not sure if it was the one, the center was on top of the hill, there was a huge gate that looked like it has seen better days.  I was under the impression that perhaps they have another gate that they use in another part of the center but then we were greeted by a security guard and asked us if we were there to see Sr. Margaret, apparently they were expecting us.  Unfortunately Sr. Margaret was out of town so there was another pink nun that welcomed us.
There was a huge parking space just as you enter. Then there about over 50 steep steps leading to the center.  When we reached the top of the steps, I was panting like crazy as if my tongue would drop.  Haven't had enough adventure of the day? huh! The nun was already there waiting for us with a sincere smile.  Like Sr. Margaret she was very soft spoken and sound very fragile.  I wondered if they all are and I wonder if they ever know how to curse or have they even once in their lives.  I'm crazy to have thought about this.

Sr. Margaret with one of the boys

So, she showed us around. Loquito and I were lead inside.  We were surprised to discover that the center holds about 30+ kids and some rescued women from bars and streets.  Some of them were forced to become underage prostitutes and became drug dependent while some of them were forced to marry at young age and of course had children at 14 or 15 years old.  My god, at that age I was still collecting sandrio stationeries and doing scrapbooks in school while these girls were forced to grow up beyond their age.
We also found out that there was a fence around the center so high that it was impossible to climb if one would think of escaping.  And the windows and doors have grills on them.  At some point I was compelled to ask about it, Sr. Mary ( i thought her name was - i think they are all called Sr. Mary and then another name for example my friend Sr. Mary Margaret), told us that some women and children would escape to go back to their old life.  The center is isolated and there is nothing much to do, so they would run away, some of them were addicted to their life before the center so, about 2-3 months from their rescue they would attempt to run away, hence the fence and grills.  It sounded very sad.

Home of Love children

We were showed their rooms, some ladies with 3 kids and they are sharing in one tiny room like a small family. We saw their facilities, they also have a chapel inside, some classroom and a library with books that have seen better days and some learning tools for both kids and adults.  They also have some collection of cartoon movies for the kids which meant a lot to those little angels, they were so bubbly telling me a summary of fairy tales they saw and I would tell them some part of it, they would look at me wide eyed. One asked me if I also grew up there since I know most of their movies, I smiled and told them that I was once a child like them, so we had the same activities, watched the same fairy tales.  And their smiles were contagious. It was the best picture that I have in my mind that day. The picture of the white beach and blue sky of bantayan island was nothing compared to the picture of these children smiling and giggling in front of us.  At some point they also gave us a dance number which really entertained us most of the afternoon. And then, they were all over Loquito, they all want to be held, he would toss them in the air and catch them like a ball with his huge hands. When we were outside just sitting by the wooden shed, they were all clinging to him like a chinese lucky buddha having to many children all over him.  I was surprised it didn't bother him one bit. There was a joy somehow in his eyes that told me he was enjoying that moment too as I did.  Sr Mary was telling us that the kids always like to play with male visitors, perhaps because they are all women in the center and kids long to have a male figure or a father and we all understood this.
It was 5pm and we should be leaving, we have to drive back to the city, how long? we have no clue.
We said goodbye to the children and promised them that we will be back one day, we also took note of what we can do to help them.

Home of Love children

Sr. Margaret had been in touch with us and shared with us their project which Loquito and I will look at ways how we can help.  They are establishing a livelihood project for the women at Home of Love so that they will be able to stand on their own without subjecting themselves into going back to prostitution.

For any one interested to help for this project, you may visit this link.
Home of Love Livelihood Project
Mary Queen of Heaven Missionaries 




     

Leaving Bantayan Island for Home of Love

After our very peaceful and sunny beach day in Bantayan Island, we decided to cut our trip short due to the weather report forecasting strong winds the following day or possibly in the next couple of hours.  So, we decided to go back to Cebu City on the next ferry out.  As we were getting ready, "Kulut" (the guy who rented us his motorbike) - came to see us, he was just coming by to check if we need his assistance however, he found out that we were planning to leave.  Although, not in the least happy but he was very understanding and was very helpful getting us to the pier and bought tickets.  We managed to get on a ferry on the last minute, and I guess people rely on weather forecast more in Bantayan Island coz believe it or not - the ferry was full.

Kota Beach

The sea was calm when we left Sta. Fe Port and soon enough we realized that the ferry we were on was slower than the one we came by with however it is bigger compared to the previous.  Half way through the channel the wind picked up and the boat started to rock.  I was a bit scared but pleased that we made the right decision of going back.  I've overheard from the locals chatting behind us that the wind usually picks up in the afternoon and that it is wiser to get on the slower ferry, it is bigger and safer.  I was contented to hear this despite that I felt nauseated the last half of the journey.  When I saw the pier from a distance, I felt relieved.  The ferry - although slightly bigger but it was the same smell of smoke and engine roaring and hammering your head the whole time, much worse coz the floor we were sitting or standing on constantly vibrates from the engine.  It maybe because the boat was large and therefore uses a bigger engine? whether this is right or wrong - the vibrating adds up to my motion sickness. I didn't really know how I survived the trip without complaining or better yet - without getting really sick but I'm happy I manage to keep my cool.

Built like a tank!

We got off the ferry as soon as possible when it we were told it was ok to leave the boat.  Loquito - being so tall and built like a tank, he managed to pull me and our bags passed all passengers rushing to the exit. Size really does matter! As soon as we got out, we collected the car from the covered parking space.  I was praying the drunk guy isn't there, tough luck he was, I guess my prayers didn't reach God in time.  We settled our parking fee and I had Loquito handle the guy.  Hell! - drunk or not - he should be intimidated by the man that's twice his size and also very good at pretending he doesn't speak English! hahaha..this does the trick most of the time.

When we left we decided to drive through a different route than when we got there, and also too that we will visit the Home of Love orphanage.  It was something we been wanting to do since our vacation begun.  According to google map, from Hagnaya Port to Tuburan was 47 kilometers - I hope its not a lie! Coz it doesnt sound like it was that far.  However, it was the first time we took that road, and also the first time to visit the center in Tuburan and we have no clue how to get there but to rely on google map directions.  We drove for about half an hour and I realized we were running out of fuel. I was getting really worried, the road we were on  was mountainous, going up - down - blind curves - and the houses were far apart, there were hardly any people on the street and some road doesn't even have any visible houses by the road side and it stretched on for a few kilometers, let alone a gasoline station out of nowhere.

according to google map

Loquito told me to drive slower so we could conserve the fuel, should be enough to get us to Tuburan town center.  As we got nearer we can see some people walking on the street and I felt relieved, that it felt like we were back in civilization and less of the mountains scenery.  We checked for the gasoline station right away and then we asked around how to get to the Home of Love.  Apparently the orphanage is famous as Pink Sisters coz the nuns that run the center wears Pink!  So after, asking a couple of people we found a narrow road leading to the center.  It was a very steep climb, I was told by the Nuns to leave the car at the foot of the path but Loquito wanted to take it up, so he took over the wheel.  There was no way in hell I could make it up if I were to drive, the center was position on top of the hill. When we got there, indeed we were greeted with the Pink Nun and a lot of lovely children.  Although it felt like we were driving forever and we started to feel tired, but when we hear the kids laugh, it was all we needed to feel good again.     

Kota Beach Resort

So, we reached Bantayan Island and had no reservations whatsoever, but with some tips from the motorbike driver "Kulot" - who rented us his motorbike, we found Kota Beach Resort.  Although this was after 4-5 resorts that refused us because they were full,  we were so glad to have found a resort with a beach front - this is all we need and we knew we were in the right place, after all - the purpose was to find any white beach in Cebu we can set our foot on.  The rooms were facing the beach and most of them occupied by long staying guests, some of them stay for months. The rates are affordable - it's between P800 - P3000 depending on the location of the room.  The resort was very basic no other facilities besides the restaurant and reception - the beach is the only thing they have at best and the rooms - although, facing the beach those were made to disappoint, it was already run down and the fittings were just as old and tired - Seriously needs some renovation.

beach front cottages

I've been to Bantayan Island a couple of times before, I have an Uncle (my Dad's brother) lives there and my bestfriend Leila's Dad - grew up in Madredejos (one of the three municipality on Bantayan Island).  However, I have no clue which side of the island has the best beach, as usually when you travel with locals in the area they just drag you all over the place and you have no idea where you were, how you got there, after all you did that day.  So, finding a beach front view rooms and white beach was a feat for Loquito and I, somehow it was like threading in unchartered territory.  It was raining when we arrived but we managed to swim in the dark in between the interval rains.  It did felt creepy at some point swimming in the water that you cant even see whats in there, except you just struggle to keep afloat and ensure not to touch your feet underwater.  The beach front didn't have lights on, and we were only relying on the reflections of the lights from the resorts restaurant a couple of meters away and the light post from a resort next to ours.  There were other people swimming, so it was not that scary staying in the water. Actually it was easier to stay in the water than out of it, the wind was a bit of a chill and it was was more scary to you get out of the water.  The beach was really nice and swimming made us feel better, despite the darkness and after a long day of driving, boat ride and then motorbike in the rain it was a treat.  It does sound like a long day does it? I would like to say "it was Fun" but i have difficulties extracting the words from my head since there was a point when I was wet shivering cold on the motorbike under the rain.

Local fishermen

After swimming, we had dinner at the resorts restaurant. Ding Dong Restaurant! I don't know who would name a resorts restaurant Ding Dong but it was it's name.  We couldn't help giggling - not with excitement but with pure sarcasm.  The menu was a big selection, however, a lot of the ones we wanted to order were not available but, they still kept it in the menu (after all these years - I guess!).  "Sigh". After a long struggle with the Menu I ended up ordering vegetable fried rice, i thought it would be the safest choice since Filipinos are really fond of rice - so you can't go wrong with any rice courses and Loquito looked at me as if my choice was from the menu outer space.  When the food came after about an hour of waiting, my food was unbelievably a poor choice.  I ended up eating what Loquito ordered and hardly touched my fried rice and I swear - I will never order fried rice again.

Loquito found his white beach and the perfect blue sky

The night was short due to the rain, and then it was pouring hard and harder and then some very loud thunder, it felt like the walls would break - we didn't have a choice but to sleep.  We woke up with a really nice weather the following day.  The sun was up and it was really hot.  After breakfast at Ding Dong Resto (this time breakfast was inclusive of the room rate) although it was just toasted slice bread, a powdered juice mix, coffee or tea, butter and jam - it didnt matter, we were more excited with the beach than food.  We took a walk on the beach and went all the way to the last resort in the area and notice all of the ones that refused us but we were so happy to realized that our resort has better beach.  There were very few people on the beach, and it felt like we had our own private white beach.  I knew most people were hiding from the sun and we just did the opposite.  We found a spot with very fine sand, so we laid our towels, swam for a while and then lay there to soak up some sun - as if I needed more colour, seriously I couldn't be more darker from all the beaches we been already.

not sure if those two are out on a romantic cruise

Bantayan Island is a great place for honeymooners and beach bums I guess, there was little trouble that disturbs your peace.  The beach is amazing, the sand is white and very fine like sugar and no crowded place.  It's like a little peace of heaven, however with a bad weather there is a possibility that you will be stuck on the island, because the ferry company doesn't operate when the wind is strong, the sea could be really rough.

Davids Kitchen @ IT Park, Lahug Cebu

Davids Kitchen is located at the ground floor of eBloc 2, Cebu IT Park Lahug, Cebu City.  From the outside, the restaurant looks classy, modern and expensive.  My friends and I decided to dine there because for one my best friend Gemma insisted that she wants a steak for dinner and it should be at David's Kitchen and two because Davids Kitchen looks very promising from the outside.

first steak 

As we got into the restaurant, we were greeted with a pleasant and polite hostess that sat us all down.  She handed us the menu in an instant which was an indication of a fast service.  The menu looked delicious and our mouth were watering just flipping pages of super yummy looking steaks.  However, when it was time to take our orders, the order taker was a bit unprofessional - when my friends ordered for a steak he didnt even upsell us with that was his best recommendations.  And he did not asked the ladies how their steak should be done.  When I ordered for a steak that was medium rare - he simply told me "mam, naa ni syay dugo" (ma'am this will have some blood)..I didnt understand if he was telling me or if he was asking me.  But this to me was - RUDE!  Didn't we know that the customer is always right? But anyway, if I didn't want my steak without blood in it, I would have asked for it WELL-DONE.  So, well I got my way and told him that it was what I wanted and so he left the table however his body language and his facial expression was like waiting for something to punch us with.

second steak

After almost an hour of waiting, someone else brought our steak which was so different from the pictures in the menu.  And unfortunately my steak was as dry as welldone.  When I asked them about it, they took it and then came back with it and told me that the chef said it is medium rare.  My god! who are you kidding? So, I insisted that they should change it to medium rare.  Anyway, they got back with another piece but forgotten to give me my mash potato side dish.  The meat was horrible, about half of the whole steak was fat and it was like chewing rubber.  I guess the chef was mad when I returned the first piece so he got back to me on the second.

half of the steak was impossible to eat!

Anyway, the whole order from our table was mostly wrong but, we didn't take offense and just ate but complained amongst ourselves, laughing as if we had a great time.  But in all honestly, we will never go there again.  It's a shame ones name will just be ruined by some unprofessional individual working for them.

Moms HUMBA de Cebu!

From the word, one can’t figure out what it means unless if you are Bisaya or someone from the Central Part of the Philippines.  It is our version of pork stew. Most Cebuanas (and I mean women from Cebu) are known to be a good cook, a lot to do with our culture, although, this theory may not be applicable to me and that is why I specifically used the word "most" and not "all".  Women rule in the kitchen but this true in other aspects as well.  For one, our moms are Director of Finance of our house, they would keep all the money for the family, dad’s will have to work and give all their earnings to Mom every pay day not even keeping a cent for their personal use.  Although it sounds like our mommies are having the better half of the pie, its not! Our mom would bear the burden of budgeting the whole months menu and everything else, including kids and dads allowances.  My mom is great with it!  For one I am very lucky that I grew up with moms home cooked food.  My mom would patiently wake up early morning to pick up fresh produce from the market.  But that was, I guess before the supermarket was built next door, we didn’t have frozen goods then. Everything was sold in the market, and we cant opt for a cup noodle or frozen chicken. And I seriously thank God for it! I was raised eating fresh food.

hmmm...Yummy!!!!

So one of my mom's hat is an engineer, she does it better with food!  Her Humba is one great example.  I’d die everyday for this, although, it may not be the healthiest to eat everyday but I would be a willing victim.  Humbas main ingredient is pork.  My mom would fry pork until it is golden brown and the she would stew it with vinegar, soya sauce, water, black beans, salt and pepper.   But our favourite of all is the banana that she would fry first and stew it along with the pork.  Hmmm, my mouth is watery thinking about it. Actually my brother and I would fight for the last piece of banana in the Humba more than anything in it. I love it so much.

Diving in Pescador Island

Located in Municipality of Moalboal in the South of Cebu about 2 hours drive from Cebu City.  Pescador Island takes about 25 minutes by speedboat or by motorized banca from Panagsama beach where most dive operators and dive resorts are located.  The best time to go diving in Pescador Island is during early morning as during the afternoon the wind can be tricky and the sea can be very choppy.  The island is located in the open water and currents can be strong at times.

resident frogfish

I been to Pescador island about 5 times this year already and still counting.  Usually visibility is very good.  I usually go with Ocean Safari Divers, the dive masters there are fun to dive with and they are reasonably priced.  Pescador Island is one of my favorite dive sites in Philippines.  Although, traces of dead corals are obvious, it was when the El nino hit the Philippines about 20 years ago a lot of corals died but Pescador Island is still worth diving.  The island is a large pinnacle rising from the bottom of the sea.  There are no inhabitants on the island as it is not habitable due to the lack of fresh water.

weird looking nudibrach

Pescador island is famous for “Cathedral” its an open top fuel that bottoms out at 34 meters, the funnel is open also on its outer side at 15 meters.  Shafts of sunlight shine into the funnel around noon.  Pescador walls have very rich marine life.  I love the resident frogfishes that are usually in the same spot everytime I dive as if waiting for me there.  There is also the shoal of sardines, so thick that I’m always tempted to swim thru them.  If you get lucky, you may encounter green turtles, hammerheads, manta rays, grey reef sharks and even whale sharks.   Pescador island is a great dive site.  I would dive there everyday if it’s close to where I live.  

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Pizzeria Michelangelo, Banilad Cebu

Came here the first time with a friend looking for decent restaurant in the City.  This place came highly recommended by friends and relatives.  I've never heard of this place before and I don't even know how to get to the restaurant, however most recommendations had a promising note.  So, there you go, I went looking for it for a Sunday lunch.  The place was not that hard to find and it has its own parking area which is convenient.  A lot of places in the city doesn't really have a parking area, unless if you head to the malls there are plenty you don't have to drive around looking for a place you can leave your car.  Although I must say that the parking space is limited to a few cars, however one can always find a parking space within that strip.

restaurant interior

With the name, I didn't expect too much of the place, however it was exactly how a friend of mine describe the place it should be.  The ambiance is cool, clean, decent and so as the people hanging out there.  The wait staff were friendly, attentive and knows their menu.  We were also surprised that the food came very quick.  After dining in the city for a while now you can only wish that restaurants pay attention to the time they serve the food.

I love this!!!

The food was great and just the right size.  They said luck will not strike twice, so I visited this place again the second time with other friends however we went in for dinner instead of lunch.  The ambiance changed a bit, but it looks better during the evening than it was during day time.  The food was still great and so were the staff. I would highly recommend this place.

PIZZERIA MICHELANGELO

#1 Paseo Saturnino, Old Ma. Luisa Road, Banilad, Cebu City

Tel. No. 6332. 236 4297

Oh and I just found out that they have a branch at Mango Avenue, at Mango Square and another one in Mactan near Shangri'Las Mactan in Punta Engano.

Night Diving at Palm Beach, Marigondon

As a child, I remembered Marigondon as a weekend refuge from the city life for me and my big family. This is where we usually spend Saturdays, Sundays and all the public holidays specially when the tide is high. We all love the sea so much that we would stay in the water from the time we arrive til its time to go. I would get prune hands it would hurt all night but as a child, it never mattered then.

nudibranch - looking so fragile

However now that I'm crazy about scuba diving, this is how I spend most of my time in Marigondon lately. I didnt realized until now that it has a very vibrant marine life. No matter how many times I dove in this place, there is always something new to see or discover every time. Recently a friend of mine has been asking me to buddy with him for night diving almost every day. And like day time scuba diving there is always something new that we discover. Only that it is more interesting. Night diving is always a different experience, most creatures that you encounter during night time you may not see them during the day, ie. cuttlefish, brittle star, etc. But most of all, we usually feel more adrenalin as it can be a scary thing diving in darkness. I remember my first night diving experience, I almost peed in my wet suit when I was staring at the wall that feels like there is something that will appear ready to eat me alive anytime.

frogfish - so ugly looking yet so beautiful!!!

In one of our dives, we saw a white nudibranch with yellow highlights, which I havent seen before and a frogfish which I thought doesn't exist in this area but with a stroke of luck we saw it a couple of times now. I wish that the local government would protect this area from boat anchors and dynamite fishing, so we can all enjoy this gift of nature. God I love this place and night diving here makes it my top spot in Cebu and Mactan Island. This has become my favorite diving site in the area now, however you have to watch out for the tides, the current can be nasty when its going low. The best time is when the tide is going high or during high tide.

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Oslob - Snorkel with Whale Sharks

Since I got back in Cebu I been hearing about whale sharks sightings in Oslob. Its a 3 hours drive down south of Cebu province from the city.  This place is not famous and no one would hear about Oslob until the whale sharks started appearing in shallow water of this sleepy town sometime in September last year.

Apparently, during this time of year it is the season for the fish locally known as "bolinao" or the "Philippine Anchovy".  During the bolinao season, the local fishermen would group together to catch "bolinao" with their big fishnet.  What happened this time in Oslob was, when the fishermen were catching bolinao, the whale sharks were pitching in from their catch.  Most of what they have left of the bolinao were half eaten.  So, the fishermen decided to have 2-4 fishermen assigned everyday to feed the whale sharks while the rest catches bolinao and they split the catch equally amongst themselves.  They went on like this for a couple of days until one day, 2 of the smaller whale sharks followed their boat to shallow water thinking that they were following the source of food.  This was the start of this amazing whaleshark phenomenon in shallow waters of Oslob that stirred Cebu since it was sighted.

I drove there with Loquito, since we were already in Moalboal doing some scuba diving.  Although I've seen whale sharks before but the excitement of seeing this huge creatures again in my home province is more than exciting - it's ecstatic.  So we drove after lunch so we could still do one more scuba diving before leaving Moalboal.  I have not tried driving to Oslob from Moalboal before and I haven't been there in a long time so I was not really sure how to get there, but it looked like there was only one road according to goggle map.

We drove about 2 hours and  got there at about almost sunset.  It was easy to find, we just followed the signs and definitely there is only one road to get there - we never got lost!  Apparently the whale sharks are gone after lunch time, so there wasn't a chance of us to see it when we arrived.  We decided to stay over night and head to sea first thing in the morning.  There were many cottages for rent overnight and we found one by the beach where the whaleshark watching happens.  Aaron Beach Resort. It was a house but converted into an overnight hostel sort of, 3 rooms, cable TV, kitchen, dining and they have a dive shop.  I was told it is owned by an Australian guy married to a local lady, but they prefer to live in Australia and only come for vacation in Oslob.  The care taker of the house were very friendly and accommodating, we were also allowed to cook if we want to, otherwise they will cook for us and charge accordingly.  It was cheap either way.  

At the break of dawn, we were already awake, too excited to let any minute pass us by, we got up and had breakfast with the guys working at the house. Then we were led to get tickets to watch or snorkel with whalesharks.  Tickets vary depending if you are a local and foreigner.  HAHAHA, I had the biggest laugh. I got me a local ticket while my companions were made to pay 50% more than I did. But to be honest I wasn't proud of this.  People should enjoy this at the same price regardless, the experience will be the same for any of us no matter how much you paid for it at the end of the day.  But anyway, they were just happy to be able to see this huge creatures and didn't really mind if they paid 10 times more.  It is an experience to be had, I must say.

So, we paid and got our tickets, we were given our snorkels and lifejackets.  We were told to get on a native boat that took us about 5 minutes, which we could have had just walked on the beach to the venue for the whaleshark watching briefing conducted by the local government.  The briefing took about 5 minutes, of which we were told the do's and don'ts. Somehow, I was glad they implemented something like that, it's good to know that this is not just a sightseeing but also some sort of a learning experience as well as the local government was taking care of those huge creatures.  After the briefing we got on the same boat and headed towards the group of whalesharks being fed by the other boatmen. Our boat guide, was very strict with the lifejacket while on the boat. I tried all excuses to be exempted but it didn't work with him, which was I think good for most visitors that doesnt know how to swim, at least whatever happens they will float for sure!  I was surprised by how close we were to the whalesharks, we can almost touch it, but as per the briefing we were not allowed to, so we refrained from doing so.  At the same time, I felt bad that those gigantic creatures hits the paddles or the bancas (wooden boat) when they try to surface to feed themselves with krill that the fishermen were feeding them with.  There were 14 whalesharks in the area and I was overwhelmed that we had 5 just around us. Even if I've seen them before, it is still something to get excited. Amazing experience.  

Apple One Banawa Heights

Live like you're in SAN FRANCISCO...

the electric and zesty life cannot thrive in crowded living spaces. This is why the newest project by AppleOne Properties, Inc. sprawls on a 2.8-hectare development in Good Shepherd Road, Banawa where three residential concepts are available to match your exclusive taste.

Our three-sotrey Mansionettes, four-storey walk-up Villas, and twelve-storey Towers are divided into private clusters such that on each floor, you will only have two to five neighbors. With dedicated amenities for each type of home offering, generous and expansive landscapes, AppleOne Banawa Heights is a distinctly themed gated subdivision that truly changes the face of metropolitan living in Cebu. 

AMENITIES:
70% open spaces, which include a fully landscaped subdivision with generous walkways, jogging trails, and pocket gardens
Keyless Access Control – a first of its kind in Cebu
5 Swimming pools
Multi-function Gazebo
Grand Fountain Grand Entrance Gate
Parks and Playground
Basketball Court
Gym
Boutique Shops
Alfresco Café
Convenience Stores & other retail establishment to answer the needs of the residents
Underground electrical system

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

How much is the reservation fee? *P 25,000 (NOTE:  The Php25,000.00 reservation fee is applied on the 20% Down payment if all required documents are submitted within 30 days from Reservation Date. However, if the required documents are not submitted within 30 days, the reservation fee is forfeited.)

What are the requirements for reservation?          
*Buyers Info Sheet (BIS)2 Valid IDs
*Signed Computation Sheet
*Reservation Agreement
*Paystub for the last 3 months, applicable only for Pag-ibig Financing
(NOTE: Buyers are only given 30 days for the completion of requirements. Otherwise, reservation fee will be forfeited.)

What are the payment options?
*Deferred Payment- 24 mos. at 0% interest
*Bank Financing- BDO and BPI
*PAG-IBIG Financing

Where are the parking units located?
*All parking areas are located at the basement of each building. There are also Towers with second floor podium parking.

How many parking units can I buy? *Each Buyer can purchase up to two (2) parking units.

How much is the Association Dues? *To be determined and to be announced later.

Can we have adjoining units? *Yes, all units are modularly designed.

Can a foreigner buy a unit? *Yes, all foreigners can buy a condo unit of not more than 1,000Sqm. All titles are Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT).

How big is the road inside the subdivision? *10-meters wide road network.

When is the turnover of the unit?
*The Towers - turn over will be on the 25th month (upon full payment of DP)
*The Villas - turn over will be on the 37th month (upon full payment of DP)
*Mansionette - turn over will be on the 49th month (upon full payment of DP)

What would be the First Batch of units to be sold?
*The Tower (6 Private Cluster) 12-Storey
*The Villas (3 & 2 Private Cluster) 4-Storey
*Mansionette (2 Buildings) 3-Storey

FOR MORE CONCERN OR INFORMATION & SITE VIEWING, PEASE FEEL FREE TO Contact US!

Diving in Marigondon Cave

Marigondon Cave is one of the famous dive spots in Mactan, Cebu, although this dive is strictly for advanced divers only.  It is a shore entry and drift towards the cave entrance, about 30 meters. Then drops about 35-40m deep to the cave entrance. The diameter of the cave is about 10m.  It is advisable to bring a reel, torches and ensure that every diver keeps watch of time.

There are lion fish at the entry, deeper inside a school of strange flash light fish blinking in the dark and some giant crabs. This is truly an amazing dive. Nitrox is strongly recommended for this dive.

The first time I went there was during day time, the current was strong so the drift was so fast that I almost got disorientated.  But then thanks to the training and the buddy that I had, I didnt panic at all, the only thing was that I forgot to bring a torch so I had to tail with my buddy.  It was not bad but I vouched to come back.

Indeed I went back so many times that It became almost my daily routine that we didnt need a reel to come back to the mouth of the cave.  And then my buddy and I decided to go there at night. At first I was scared coz we realized at the bottom of the mouth of the cave were 4 tomb stones. Those were tomb stones of divers that apparently died there while diving. But I guess something that divers only understand, excitement was more than fear.  And we went scuba diving at night.

As soon as the sun was about to set we started our swim by the time we submerge the sun was out.  It was a total different from the day dive we been doing. When we were at the bottom on the mouth of the cave my buddy decided to turn off all our torches and sit still for 3 minutes. It was pitch dark and then we saw a lot of flashlight fishes that seemed to glitter in the dark, they hardly move in the same of a big fish.  It was one of the most amazing thing I have seen.

I would really go back there soon, unfortunately my camera is not good enough to take photos in total darkness. I have to upgrade my camera too soon. So if you are heading to Cebu, make sure to do this side trip scuba diving.