Hiking the millenia-old Batad Rice Terraces

“Why do you have to go back here? The trail is exhausting!”, a participant exclaimed while we were hiking from the Saddle to Batad proper learning that it would be my fifth time to come here. While I laughed it out as I carefully navigated through a rocky downhill part of the trail, I was thinking at the back of my mind that there are places really worth going back to. Places you have to work hard for and feel rewarded once you reach it. Batad is still one of those magnificent places and I never get tired looking at.

A couple of kids playing at the Hanging Houe with a Dalican Terraces at the back

The adventure started when Peach and Divi dared to ride top-load of our jeep on our way to the Batad saddle. I could hear the incessant screams and laughter as we pass by bumpy roads. They did go back inside the jeep after we made a stop at the famous Hanging House by the road side where one could see the nice looking Dalican Terraces. It was also an impromptu photo shoot as the family and kids were willing photo subjects for us to enjoy.

On our way to Hillside Inn

Maybe it was our easy chit-chats or Divi’s sudden burst of a song that distracted us from the trail, the trek from the Saddle to Batad was quicker than I anticipated. And as we go closer to our Inn, the beauty of the terraces started showing itself. It was until the vista opened up at the Information booth that I could hear the many shutter clicks while I write our names on the registration list.

At the early narrow trail to the terraces

Hillside Inn would be our home for the night. I chose this place since it has one of the better unobstructed view of the Rice Terraces. I also noticed the improvements since the first time I stayed here like the additional bathroom and toilets on each floor. Lunch was already waiting for us when we came. Very efficient and thanks to advance orders prior the trip.

The vertigo inducing upper trail of the Batad Terraces

The trek to the Tappia Waterfalls was an open option but everyone took up the challenge despite our warning for a difficult trek along the terraces. There are guides to help us out and this time we would be taken on a different trail. The group was split into half, some went on to the safer trail which passes through the mid part of the terraces which I was also familiar. The rest went up to a higher vantage point ending to a junction where a flight of stairs leads to Cambulo and also the falls.

Og, Divi with Guide Moses at the mid-part of the terracesa

Like the other participants, it’s also a first for me to try this upper trail. And even if I have passed through this age-old terraces numerous times, there was a moment there where I almost panicked and vertigo struck as soon as I realized my position. From the height and also the soft narrow pathways ahead of me, I recomposed myself and took it a step at a time and finally reached our highest point.

Regrouping at the hut for the Falls jump-off trail

This must have been the best I’ve seen of Batad Terraces. Beautiful lighting against the layers of green against the bright blue sky. It was so vibrant and alive that the recent perilous trek along the terraces just vanished all of a sudden. We regrouped at the hut which is the jump-off for the Tappia Falls.

Now on the otherside of the terraces, the vibrant colors of Batad

I knew the arduous trek to the falls would really test everyone’s endurance. The rugged mountain peaks and the thin line of trail seen on the horizon is taunting but everyone’s spirit was alive and daring. Our participant braved more than a hundred steps along with the rising cost of soda and power drinks as we grew closer to the falls and its refreshing sight was enough to sooth our senses. Clicking away and some even enjoying the cool waters, I was relieved everyone made it this far.

The rugged mountains taunt at the trail to Tappia Falls

We faced the same challenge on our way back with a splash of rain towards the end. There was no power in Batad but thank god the cool weather was enough to put as to slumber. But before that we took relieve from painkillers, liniments and a relaxing massage. It was a long day 1 of our Backpack Photography Photo Adventure but I’m sure the memory of this experience would last longer even after the muscle soreness has gone.

Group hug at Tappia Falls

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Join our next Backpack Photograhy as we show you Corregidor in a New Light this July 2-3, 2011.

The post Ifugao: Backpack Photography Banaue Photo Adventure Day One appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

First light at Batad Rice Terraces and mountains

It’s such a sheer delight to open our doors and be greeted by the morning scenery of Batad Rice Terraces and the surrounding mountains. Waking up was effortless, but seeing the warm-lit clouds like a painted sky above the mountain skyline put each of our initial plans to wash up when we got out of bed to a halt and quickly grab our cameras instead to capture what’s left of this sweeping light. Having woken up several times in this place, it’s a rare moment for me to see the sky lit up like this.

Opening up to a spectacular view of the terraces at Hillside Inn

Having spent much of the participant’s energy on almost a whole day hike to Batad and Tappia Falls on day 1, we decided to just take the easy route to Bangaan instead of the longer more challenging back roads as previously planned. Bidding goodbye to our host at Hillside Inn, we started our trek back to the saddle and this time its going to be an ascending hike.

Even a dog could enjoy the view at Batad

We thank our porters for making this a lot easier for the participants. I know they are always on the lookout for tourist arrivals as “porting” is one their means of livelihood. When I did my ocular weeks before I already chatted with a few of them so they were ready when we arrived. Our main guide Precy is a young lady but already has a family so I decided to make her to be our point person in Batad. She was helpful during the trek at the terraces and the falls. It’s also amazing that she had to go back to the saddle to check up on their store and her family. She and the porter/guides make hiking to the saddle seems easy as saying point A to point B

Our young lady guide

Ifugaos are really interesting people. I remember chatting with Jimmy, one of the porters that they are sometimes dismayed when they are mistaken as headhunters like the tribes from the mountain province. “We are a peaceful people who enjoys crafts, culture and cultivating rice and headhunting was not a part of our culture” said Jimmy while chewing on some Nga Nga or Moma or betel nut concoction.

The ageless Lola Anna from Batad

One Ifugao trait is that they occasionally chew on this betel nuts which we popularly call Nga nga or Moma. I recently had this tricycle driver who took me to the Batad Junction when I had my ocular. He originally hailed from Pangasinan but got married to an Ifugao and has been living here for 10 years. He chewed up some moma when we stopped on the road. He told me when he started chewing moma, he stopped smoking and he felt a lot better unlike when he smoked. “Isa ka ng tunay na Ifugao! (You’re now a true Ifugao!)” I told him and he laughed.

Lola Anna's Moma Set sans the tobacco

Moma chewing usually have a mixture of 3 items, the Moma or betel nut, the betel leaf, Hapid and the lime powder Apog. First they chew the meat of the nut for a few minutes to moisten and soften it up to a wad, then they add the leaf with lime powder and bite it into the wad which would induce a chemical reaction that makes the moma red. Moma is a mild stimulant and according to them it warms them up, stimulates their awareness and lessens their craving for food. Some even add tobacco in the mix for that momentary euphoric dizziness. Some studies link moma chewing to oral cancer and cardiovascular sickness, however this doesn’t stop Ifugaos from chewing on them up to 10 times a day with a stained smile on their faces.

The Batad Saddle getting crowded

We met, Lola Anna during our hike back to the saddle. She’s an aged Ifugao who speaks fluent English and has beautiful facial feature despite her age. She showed her Moma set without tobacco since her lungs could not take it. But Moma aside, she was a very interesting character because she doesn’t know her age since she doesn’t know her birthday nor her parents. Yet she seem to live happily in Batad sometimes guiding tourist and also a performer on cultural dances.

The Charming roadside Bangaan Family Inn

We took a jeep to Bangaan from the saddle and stayed at Bangaan Family Inn. I can still recall finding this charming inn by the roadside for the first time in November 2002 where I stayed in one of their Ifugao house overlooking the terraces before. Nothing much has changed except there were a few people now staying in. “Since jeeps can now reach the saddle, less people stay here anymore. Before, they stay overnight here and go by the shortcut at the back of the house the next day” said Mang Florencio, the owner of the Inn. But despite less people staying, there were more people dining in. “See those people over there” his lips pointing to a table full of Koreans “They’ve been driving here everyday for a week already from Banaue Hotel to have lunch” I wouldn’t be surprised since personally I found the food in this Inn to be spectacular.

A dash of local color at one of the houses in Bangaan

It was an afternoon of chilling. We originally decided to have a free time for participants to do what they liked to do in the afternoon after the arduous hiking we did the day before. And it is so fitting for a quaint little place as Bangaan where spending time is getting lost staring at their magnificent rice terraces down below until the sun settles behind the mountains.

Sundown at Bangaan view deck

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Join us on our next Backpack Photography as we show you Corregidor in a New Light this July 2-3, 2011.

The post Ifugao: Batad Morning, Chewing Moma and Bangaan Family Inn appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Bangaan Rice Terraces in the morning

It’s surprising that most of us were already awake by 5am in the morning without even having to call everyone up. We were worried the night before that the constant bamboo-like clacking sound from the mountain frogs outside Bangaan Family Inn would keep us awake but it seems the frogs drifted to sleep as well. Or was it the amusing ghost stories that challenged to sleep? But ghostly presence or not, we were shooting trees from a hill far away as the soothing calmness of the morning in Bangaan unfolds.

Shooting distant trees at dawn

It was rather an easy morning and participants are free to shoot which ever they want. Whether it’s the sunlight slowly draping over the mountains and terraces of Bangaan or the rural scene of people waking up to do their regular morning chores. I appreciate Bangaan for it’s simplicity. A place I can easily lounge around and take it easy.

Observing locals go by their morning routine

The highlight of the morning was a cultural show by the young Ifugaos of Bangaan. We decided to do the presentation here to somehow help out the youth here as well. From afar, we could here the banging gongs signaling their arrival. We went to a venue just beside an Ifugao house I stayed the first time I went here in 2002. It still looks the same, clean, comfy and spacious with an improved bathroom outside. The place also has a marvelous view of the Bangaan Rice Terraces.

Young Ifugaos gets ready for their cultural presentation

The kids started their presentation with an Ifugao welcome song followed by a traditional dance. We moved venue shortly to the view deck where they performed other dances on a much comfortable ground. The sound of the percussion and its rhythmic beats have always been enthralling to hear.

Young Ifugao Spectator

While not perfect in execution, the kids shows passion and energy and I applaud them for their efforts. It was not as refined as the performance we had during our Banaue 101 but it was the youthful energy and enthusiasm of these kids that won us.

Young Ifugao Girls

We made our way down the village by another flight of stairs. It was fairly easy trek this time with only 15-20 minutes till we reach the terraces proper. But before that we met Apo Chumoh, the oldest living person in Bangaan at the age of 96, that’s almost a century! He was fully garbed in Ifugao clothes and was sitting idly as if looking at the terraces. But he was blind as we found out and already has problems with his hearing. We gave him a monetary donation after which he mumbled a few words. Our young guide there, Rogelio told us what we gave was too big which was in fact little but he prefers bread than money.

A Kid on Percussion

The sight of vast layers rice paddies with rice plants ripe for harvest was simply incredible to see. Bangaan Rice Terraces which is also part of the four rice terraces under UNESCO World Heritage List is has a character of its own. While Batad has that magnificent amphitheater look, Bangaan Terraces looks like a giant half-pipe ramp stretching along the mountains with a little compact village at the center.

Apo Chumoh at 96 is the oldest living person in Bangaan

I was dismayed at the sight of some concrete structures there which seems out of place from the native Ifugao houses at the village but Rogelio was quick to point out that there are already funds coming from Banaue to remove and replace them with traditional ones. Being under UNESCO, I thought building foreign looking structures would be much stricter.

Beautiful layers of Rice Terraces ready for harvest

The village at the terraces was small and charming. A mass just ended when we arrived at this small St Anthony’s Church. Most of the attendees were elders. We soon visited some native houses at the lower part of the village facing another view of the terraces climbing up the distant mountains. It was just a spectacular sight to see. Some of the native Ifugao Houses there were available for rent. It would be really interesting to stay here next time.

St Anthony's Church in Bangaan Village

We left Bangaan by early afternoon en route back to Bangaan. The Photo Tour was about to end as we made a stop at the famous rice terraces of Banaue. Every time I go back here, my appreciation of Ifugao gets deeper and it really is a lot more fun sharing this spectacular sights with a group of like minded individuals. We trekked the terraces, climbed hundreds of stairs and took home memorable photographs from this journey which I’m sure will stay embedded in our minds for some time.

A row of native Ifugao Houses

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Join us on our next Backpack Photography as we show you Corregidor in a New Light this July 2-3, 2011.

Side detail of a native house

Playing Chess at Bangaan Village

The post Ifugao: Bangaan Rice Terraces, The People and its Quaint Village appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

The young Ifugaos at Bangaan

It was three days and 2 nights at the cool highlands of Ifugao. It was a mini Photo Adventure with the small number but we did give out what we promised which is adventure, immersion and tons of photographic opportunities. This was our first Backpack Photography for the year and we’re cooking something up for the last quarter of the year. In the meantime here’s our itinerary for the Banaue Photo Adventure last May and I’ve also added some Ifugao posts from previous weeks.

The group at Tappia Falls, Batad

Day One. The group arrived in Banaue from Manila in the morning and continued on to Batad Saddle. A hike to Hillside Inn for our accommodations. In the afternoon we hiked Batad Terraces to reach Tappia Falls.

A quiet afternoon at Bangaan

Day Two. We hiked back to the Saddle where a Jeep was waiting to take us to Bangaan. It was an easy free-time for the participants to relax or shoot the surrounding areas while billeted at Bangaan Family Inn.

The group with the Ifugao Kids

Day Three. We were presented with a cultural show from the young performers in Bangaan. We also went down Bangaan Rice Terraces to shoot the village and on our way back to Banaue, we did a quick stop at Banaue Viewpoint. We left in the evening for Manila.

As an added extra I’m adding the Back Trail to Bangaan from Batad which was our option for our way to Bangaan. And during my ocular, I happen to catch the Imbayah Festival 2011 which happens only every three years. So that’s something to mark on your calendar in the future.

Check out more images from my Flickr set for BP Ifugao 2011

The post Ifugao: Banaue Batad Bangaan Photo Adventure Chronicles 2011 appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Batanes Unusual Photo Tour 2012

Join our 3-island Photo Tour and Workshop.
Explore the verdant sights of Batan.
Spend an overnight on serene Sabtang.
And venture to the wilder coasts of Itbayat.
Experience Batanes in a new light.

BP Batanes Poster

Check out the full details here at www.backpackphotography.net

The post Batanes Unusual: A 3-Island Photo Tour April 2012 appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Photography 101 in Corregidor

For me Photography is like learning how to ride a bike or driving, once you learn the basics, it should be second nature to you in order for you to speed away and shoot. We invite you to learn the fundamentals in photography and apply them on a weekend in Corregidor Island for Backpack Photography 101. Learn about history while you learn about photography. Explore the Rock while you explore your photographic talents. See Corregidor in a new light.

Workshop dates:  March 3-4, 2012
Register before February 24, 2012
Limited to 18 slots only

Fee: P6,300/pax inclusive of

• overnight accommodations at Corregidor Inn
• all meals (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
• ferry service via Sun Cruises
• transportation within Corregidor
• Malinta Tunnel Light & Sound Show
• Insurance
• ID and certificate
• access to pool and beach facilities

 Whom is this workshop for? Beginners who wants to get started on photography. Refreshers and photographers who would like to take photos of Corregidor in a new light.

REGISTER HERE.

Batanes Unusual Photo Tour 2012

Our Backpack Photography Batanes Island Hop Photo Tour still has slots open. You can check out the details here at www.backpackphotography.net

The post Backpack Photography 101 in Corregidor appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

The Nakabuang Natural Arc, one of the distinct landmarks in Sabtang

It was the peak season alright for Holy Week in Batanes and our trip almost  didn’t push through but thank God (and Seair) for helping us secure our flights. Albeit shortened, we made do with our time, maximizing moments to take photos and enjoy the scenery. I’ve written about Batanes so many times already in this blog so I’ll just share some memorable takes during our recent Backpack Photography 3-Island Photo Tour.

Navigating feet at the boat to Sabtang

Day one finds us scampering to Sabtang once we set foot in Batanes. From our ever reliable lodging and friends at DDD Habitat Batanes, we were whisked away to Ivana Port where our boat was already waiting. The 45-plus so minutes ride was smooth. Our boatman is already so used to these waters he can navigate over them using his feet.

A familiar face in Savidug Village

Savidug Village was our first stop and familiar faces pops up the corner. Like this old lady Aling Lucy who was found her way to our photos before inside her house, still smiling after all this time.

St Dominic Church and a stone house in Savidug

The white-washed and petite St Dominic Church stood out of the green and blue sunny backdrop that it looked bigger than it actually is. But more attention to the stone house beside it as participants took some posterity shots there. The stone house villages in Batanes were nominated before for UNESCO but unfortunately the village won’t make the list because the new houses and structures no longer follow the traditional methods stone houses were built. Even the restoration was inappropriate. Sad but it’s still a charming and quiet seaside village.

Even the mid-day sun won’t stop us from enjoying Tiñan Hills

Probably one of my favourite spot in Sabtang is the Tiñan Hills Viewpoint, it never fails to take me or our guests drool in amazement. The peak height of the sun was not enough to stop us from venturing over the hills and enjoy the view.

The oldest man living in Sabtang Mang Marcelo with her daughter Ate Fely

Mang Marcello still busy with his basket making

The cove-sheltered town of Chavayan is usually our rest stop. This picturesque village is also home to the oldest man residing in Sabtang, Mr Marcello Hostallero. Born July 16, 1907, he doesn’t look any close to the age of 105. He is still alert, keen on his senses and sharp on his craftwork. The secret to his longevity? Eating healthy, good exercise and good sex! Marcelo has 15 children, got married at the age of 21 with his wife at the age of 14.

Tubho leaves and coffee

Another secret to his long life are these special Tubho leaves the residents drink as part of their daily diet. They make coffee out of these leaves which they harvest in far-flung mountainous area of the island. It may be the nutrients in these leaves or the combination of the long walk to procure them that has contributed to their long life-span. Ate Fely, his daughter, at her age is strong still despite being a grandmother already.

Ate Fely with her vakul headwear and basket

Our lunch stop is at the beautiful beach of Nakabuang with its distinct arc. It was a struggle to head out to shoot already as our lunch of crabs, lobster and unforgettable Luñes adobo was worth taking time to savour. But as soon as we were satiated, it was time to fill our senses on this one of a kind spot in Sabtang.

lovely trees in Nakabuang beach

We originally planned to stay overnight here but with our trip cut short of 2 days, we only had to spend a day here. Oh yeah, also noticed this new option of travel in Sabtang if one is exploring on your own or a couple, this powerful tricycles with roofs made of cogon are now available for hire. Sabtang is such a charming little island like these kids.

Sabtang Kids on a cogon-roofed Tricycle

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Join us in our next 3-Island Hop Backpack Photography Batanes this August. Check the details at www.backpackphotography.net

The post Batanes: Postcards from Sabtang Island appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Breath taking view at Torongan Hills Itbayat Island

The view of the Pacific Ocean, the deep jagged cliffs from the island where I’m standing and Dinem Island, cutting through the ocean like a knife’s edge was stupendous. Here at the farthest inhabitable, northern island of Itbayat, I’m just lost for words on how I can describe the beauty I’m seeing from Torongan Hills. If I had my way, I can spend an idle afternoon here just looking at the sea and passing clouds. It was one of those moments that I’m so proud of the Philippines for having places like this.

the 1.5km easy hike in a short cut to the cave

We took a dump truck to take us to the jump-off point to Torongan which is about an hour away. There was a 1.5 km hike towards the cave entrance.  The hike itself was pretty scenic amongst surreal growth of trees and vegetation parallel to a stream. It wasn’t also that difficult along gradual slopes and careful descent on rock boulders. In about an hour, we reached the huge cave entrance. It looks spectacular with dramatic stalactites adorning the mouth of the cave.

Finding the mouth of Torongan Cave

Our participants carefully making their way down the cave grounds

We carefully made our way down the ground of the huge cavern and felt the cold draft of air coming from the other side. There were walls of stones there which our guide said were already there when they found them. Probably signs of ancient dwellings believed to be from Austronesians who migrated here about 4000 years ago coming from Taiwan. We reached a high mound inside the cave where we could view a large opening with the view of the sea. It feels like we were inside a whale’s belly looking out from its mouth.

the wall blocks are signs of Ancient Settlement in the cave

The cave opening leading to the sea

From the cave mouth we had a very short climb to reach the hills on top of the cave and the scene seemed to have been transformed into an epic backdrop of a fantasy movie up rugged mountains where dragons fly and Vikings clash swords. It was amazing up there.

Heading to the hills

Participants near the cliff edges with Dinem Island

Burial sites from the ancient settlements can also be found here. There were about 7 burial mounds there shaped like a boat pointing to the sea. Some are already hard to distinguish from the regular rocks and the remains were no longer found there. The seafaring Austronesians believed that these boat-shaped graves would lead their departed spirits to the other life safely.

Itbayat Island is one big coral island

At the Burial grounds

It was already late in the afternoon when we started our way back. Most of us can’t help but look back at the scene that has captured our senses. We could see the hills and the cave mouth from afar. We marched on the dying light, yes that rough boat ride coming here was now a side memory. Seeing this place was worth the daunting sea journey.

Heading back

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Join us on our next 3-Island Hop Backpack Photography Photo Tour in Batanes this August. Check out www.backpackphotography.net

The post Batanes: Awed at Torongan Cave and Hills, Itbayat Island appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Tree and Sun at Mt Karoboboan

We marvelled at the stars, shining plentifully at the sky. Something we don’t see in an urban night. We played around with the star-gazer on our phones figuring out the constellations, the position of the stars in the wee hours of the morning while waiting for our dump truck service to arrive. Despite the gizmos in our hands, there was no electricity in Itbayat at 4am as it runs from noon to 12 midnight only. We were headed to one of the mountains in the island, Mt Karoboboan. Usual program from tourism here is they take people to the peak at sunset. But since we didn’t have time the day before, we decided to go on a sunrise.

The hut at the viewpoint

Mt Karoboboan stands only at 500meters above sea level. A dump truck would be able to take us to the peak. The ride took us less than an hour, enough to catch the sunrise at the summit. There was a fenced area that looked like a nice garden with a platform made of wood as a lookout point. There’s also a nice hut where people can have a picnic. It was really charming.

An HDR of Tina shooting using my mobile phone

It was one of those places where the view looks really amazing but capturing it was another thing. We challenged our participants to look for a good foreground to lead the eyes to the scenic sunrise. We also had a breakfast with neatly packed meals wrapped in tipoho leaves. Inside was a hefty serving of rice with pork, fish and with egg. We happily ate at the hut with the cold wind and calming surroundings at the peak of Mt Karoboboan.

Tree, mountains, sun layers study

We got back at Cano’s Lodge and got ready to make our way to Chinapoliran Port for our boat back to Batan Island. Since there was still time, we made a side-trip to Paganaman Port. A favourite spot of mine as we could see the fishermen here lift their boats on and off the steep platform of the port. There were also fishermen just hanging by the cliffs waiting for their prey to take a bite at their line.

Putting the boat to sea at Paganaman Port

The ride back to Batan Island was a lot smoother than our first ride. We got a lot of floor space to lie around and sleep. It was also much faster that we arrived just ahead of time in the afternoon. Again, even after being in Itabayat several times already, I felt that there are still more that I haven’t seen. Like the islands seen north of the islands. Another excuse to go back again.

Line fishing along the cliffs

The post Batanes: Sunrise at Mt Karoboboan and Sidetrip to Paganaman Port appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

The moody morning landscape at Diura

No doubt the most visited island in Batanes is Batan Island, the landing point for any plane coming in this northernmost region in the country. The provincial capital, Basco is also located in the island making it as a starting point for exploration. I have written extensively about the places in Batan Island already so I won’t be repeating much aside from some updates and new site takes from our recent Backpack Photography 3-Island Hop in Batanes. But don’t get me wrong, even if I’ve been here several times already, the views still never fails to amaze me.

Capturing the sunset at Vayang Rolling Hills

The road overlooking Naidi Hills

Day 1, arriving from our Island Hop in Sabtang Island, we went to one of my favorite spots in Batan Island, the Rolling Hills of Vayang. I’m always amused with the look as first timers are captivated by the scenery. The scene is so vast I think no picture can really justify the immensity one feels being there on the spot.

The Sto Domingo de Basco Cathedral fully restored after a decade

Day 3, arriving from our exciting overnight Island hop in Itbayat Island, we now visit the western portion of Batan Island for the sunset. But before that we passed by Basco Church, newly painted and restored to its former glory. It’s the first time I’ve seen Sto Domingo de Basco Church free from scaffolds in and out the church. When the church was damaged back in 2002 from an earthquake, it has been in constant restoration. Finally after 10 years, the scaffolding was removed last March 2012 and it looks brand new but still retaining the old qualities of its original limestone church. The church is also now elevated into a Cathedral status.

Mt Iraya seen from Chadpidan boulder beach

West of Batan Island is the often overlooked site of Chadpidan. This large boulder beach mirrors the image of its more popular eastern counterpart, the Valugan Boulder Beach. It has the same qualities except for different views. The southern rock formations in the horizon at Chadpidan reminds me of Lakay-lakay in Claveria.

Sunset and soft waters at Chadpidan

Morning of day 4 finds us driving before the sun came up in Diura Fishing village as the start of our Batan Island tour. While the onset of rain made itself felt with a light drizzle, we pushed through with the sunrise shoot hoping to get some dramatic moody shots of the weather in turmoil. Breakfast was always a delight at the overlooking dining area at Monica’s Cottage there.

Some BP participants at Diura

The nearby Mahatao Lighthouse was literally a stop to just chill, lie back on the grass and enjoy the view. There’s nothing more relaxing with cool fresh wind blowing up high on a hill overlooking Diura Fishing village below.

Chill time at the Mahatao lighthouse

There’s the usual stops like the playful slopes of Marlboro Hills, the windswept and iconic hill of Alapad in Imnajbu and then marveling at the crashing waves and steep cliffs at Chanarian Viewdeck. It was a full day but we left time for our participants to have some free time to shop and explore on their own.

Some participants exploring Marlboro Hills

Our Batanes 3-Island Hop closed that evening with an awesome dinner prepared by the staff at DDD Habitat. It was a night of sharing our favorite images during the trip and recollecting some unforgettable moments and sights that would be clearly be engraved in our memory.

Getting friendly with the goats at Alapad, Imnajbu

The post Batanes: Postcards from Batan Island appeared first on Ironwulf.net: En Route - The Philippines Travel, Photography and Adventure Blog.

Sony Singapore Digital Workshop Batanes Photography Talk

There are a couple of Photography Talks treats for you this month of March. For our Singaporean friends, Backpack Photography will introduce the wonderful world of Batanes and talk about how it would be an ideal location for Travel Photography. Starting the end of March, Sony Singapore will have a series of Sony Digital Workshops geared to improving ones photography and to kick of the opening weekend of March 30-31, 2013 myself and co-facilitator for Backpack Photography Oggie Ramos of Lagalog.com will have a couple of sessions on “Batanes: A Session about Travel Photography“.

For details of the event see below:

Sony Singapore will be offering great deals during the event, like 15% off for all Alpha A-Mount lenses and accessories. First 100 registrants will also get a limited edition shirt.

Any Camera Brand users are welcome to join!

For complete details and  other event workshops check out the Sony SG Digital Workshops site here.

Eagle Creek Travel Preppers: Travel Photography

Much earlier and closer to home is Eagle Creek’s Travel Preppers series. On March 21, 2013, is the last in the series of talks where I will be discussing concepts on Travel Photography, particularly packing and preparing for photography expeditions and maximizing the cameras you use (whether you’re using a mobile phone, point and shoot, DSLR, mirrorless cameras, it doesn’t matter) to take home great and memorable travel photos from a trip. This session is free so if  you are in the area, do drop by. Please see details below

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Backpack Photography El Nido Photo Tour

It’s time to share what I love about Palawan and El Nido is definitely one of the reasons why it’s one of my top favorite in the country. To kickstart 2014, Backpack Photography will hold an El Nido Photo Tour, to make it more interesting, we’re coinciding the photo tour in time for the Ati-atihan festival, but this time on a little known town of Barotuan. It’s an added photo opportunity to participants who would not only enjoy the sights but the culture as well. Read on for the details.

For more details and registration please visit Backpack Photography.

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Backpack Photograhy Batanes

It’s that time of the year again as we share our love for Batanes! Announcing our Batanes Travel Photography this May 22-25,  2015. 

Experience Batanes in a new light. Be there when the landscapes unravel at sunrise. Marvel at the changing nuances of light at sundown. Venture to the wilder coasts of Sabtang Island. Be captivated by Batanes the Backpack Photography way.

Read more for the inclusions:

• Roundtrip Airfare (Guaranteed Capacity)
• 4D/3N Accommodations (triple/quad- sharing options)
• Boat and inland tour transport
• Full board meals
• Registration fees
• Tour guide
• Travel insurance
• Certificates

For more details head on to Backpack Photography page.

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Dreamplay at the City of Dreams

I got a couple of nieces from Guam having vacation in our house. With their parents still out of the country, it’s up to us on how to keep these hyper-active kids of 5 and 9yo busy. One way would be the occasional visits to amusement parks. One such newly opened park is the DreamPlay at the City of Dreams in Manila. If you (and your kids) are a fan of DreamWorks animation like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon to name a few. This would be really interesting to visit.

Shrek’s Swamp Stomp

DreamWorks Theme Park

DreamPlay is situated inside the City of Dreams in Manila. Being indoor, it can be visited rain or shine. Even on a weekday, DreamPlay already garnered lots of interest, evident on the long queue upon entering the park. Good thing, the place is organized and there were already some staff to assist guest so waivers can be immediately filled and data inputed through their systems. The park have weekend and weekday rates, naturally weekends are more expensive. They also have a 2-hour pass, 4-hour pass and a day pass for Kids, Adults and Toddlers. (For complete rates check below). Each visitor have an RFID wrist band to be worn while in the vicinity.

How to Train Your Dragon Slides

Real Life Video Game

Each wristband given also gathers data from its users. There are different sections in DreamPlay and each section has challenges. If kids are really competitive, they can swipe their wrisbands on each challenges and gain points from finishing them. By the time they exit, they can see how much points they have accumulated. But somehow kids are kids, like our nieces who would rather just go around and play without thinking about those points.

Among their favorites were the Shrek station where there are passages and hanging bridges and also the How to Train Your Dragon with the giant slides. The Madagascar boats were okay as they had to build their own boats and the large ball section where they can shoot rubber balls was also fun. If they were a bit older, they could have tried the more physically challenging obstacles from Kung Fu Panda like the Wall of Destiny and Thread of Enlightenment.

At the Wall of Destiny

At the Thread of Enlightenment

My nieces and nephews climbing the steel tube mesh for the slides

At the mouth of the dragon

Occasionally Po of Kung Fu Panda would appear to dance with the staff and guests

More photos, summary and rates on the next page…

The post Manila | City of Dreams DreamPlay : Play, Create, Learn appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Close up with a couple of swiftlets

At the towering limestone cliff walls in Palawan or high up the ceiling in the deep cave chambers in Cagayan, I have seen harvesters risk their lives climbing sharp walls or hanging by the ceiling supported only by a rope in order to gather the swiftlet bird’s nest. The swiftlets locally known as the Balinsasayaw uses their saliva to build their nest. When the nest is submerged in water, it becomes gelatinous and has been used as an exotic ingredient by the Chinese in their Bird’s Nest soup for over 400 years. People risk their lives for this as this lucrative nest cost about US$2000 per kilo. A house however in San Pascual, Burias Island in Masbate have another story. There is a Balinsasayaw House where an estimate of 80,000 swiftlets live right under their basement.

The Balinsasayaw House

The Balinsasayaw House

“Nag umpisa yan dalawa lang silang balinsasayaw na gumagawa ng pugad nung ginagawa namin yung garahe. Tas ewan ko ba, parang nagtawag sila tas makalipas isang buwan dumami sila (It only started with two swiftlets building a nest when we were building the garage. I dunno if they called up their other bird friends because after a month there were lots of them!)”fondly recalled Mr Eduardo Espares, the owner of the house.

It was way back in 1991 when they built the house. A friend of theirs dropped by and told them the swiftlets were probably attracted and felt comfortable with the cave-like temperature of their basement. They eventually decided to give up the basement for the birds. They punched holes on the wall so they can freely come and go as they please.

Mr Eduardo Espares touches some of the swiftlets

The Basement

Mr Eduardo Espares led us into the house. There was a stand for caps/hats already to prevent bird dropping to fall on the hair. The door to the basement was through their bedroom. From their I could already smell the pungent air coming through the door. It became stronger as we went down the stairs through the dark room almost burning through the eyes like amonia. Once our sight got used to the darkness, eventually we became immune to the smell. It was fascinating to see all these swiflets clinging through the walls. They seem to have got used to humans as well as they don’t fly away when we approach. For the first time I could see them closely. Some nest also have eggs.

Looking at the room I’m not sure if it would reach that number but it is really fascinating. Other people would risk lives to gather these nest but here they are, they just need to go down the basement to get them. But sir Eduardo was also quick to say that he needs to regulate people coming in. The house is still their family home. Once, he allowed a couple of people to pick some nest and left them for a while. When he came back all the nest were gone. He was worried that the birds might leave but eventually they restarted building their nest again.

The birds nest were not only the significant item in the basement but the excrement as well which are also used as fertilizers. With this, the local government are working closely with the family to keep the place and regulate visitors to avoid any who would take advantage of them. They consider the presence of these thousands of swiftlets as a blessing and would also like to share this wonder to the visitors.

The Balinsasayaw House can be reached via a 5-minute tricycle ride from town. Coordinate with San Pascual Tourism Office to schedule a visit. Contact 09199112270.

Swiftlet’s nest

How to go to San Pascual, Burias Island, Masbate

The advantage of San Pascual, Burias Island from the rest of Masbate is its easy accessibility to Naga City, Camarines Sur.

• Manila to Naga City by Bus: Ride any Naga City bound bus in Cubao Terminal. Plenty of choices from Philtranco, DLTB, Isarog Lines, etc). In Pasay there’s Philtranco and DLTB. Travel time is 8–9 hours with fares starting from Php 700 to 1100.
• Manila to Naga City by Plane: There are daily flights to Naga City via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. Travel time is 45 minutes from Manila. Naga City Airport is near the town of Pili.
• Naga City to Pasacao Port: Make your way to North Bound Terminal and take a jeep or VAN heading to Pasacao. Travel time is 45minutes to an hour. From Pasacao, hire a tryke to take you to the port.
• From Pasacao Port to San Pascual: There are several boats that leave Pasacao Port for San Pascual daily usually from 7:00am, 10:00am and 2:00pm. Travel time is 2 hours and a fare of Php 150. From San Pascual to Pasacao Port, there are boats that leave from 5:30am, 8:00am and 9:20am.

Swiftlets flock the walls

A swiftlet with her eggs

A young swiftlet clinging on the wall

They count each of the nest to get an estimate number of swiftlets living in their basement

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View from my room at Ursula Long Beach

I have ran to the northern most part of the famous San Vicente Long Beach when I stayed at JuRiSu Inn situated in the central stretch of the beach. For another couple of nights I decided you stay at the southern end so I decided on booking at the only resort found on this side of the beach which is Ursula Long Beach Traveler’s Inn. An interesting family ran resort amidst a fishing village.

Southern end of the San Vicente Long Beach

South of the Long Beach

There are only a few accommodations in San Vicente Palawan that can claim they are near the white beach and Ursula Long Beach Resort is one of them. They are also near the town proper about 15–20 minutes leisurely walk. An advantage to those who likes to eat out or explore the town. Ursula Long Beach Traveler’s Inn so have a very scenic location. Native style lodgings, coconut trees and lounge chairs by the white beach. The fishing village is both a good and a bad thing. Staying here is like being part of a neighborhood which is good if local interaction is your thing but be prepared for little inconveniences like the smell of dried fish nearby where they locals leave fish to dry or even at times, the occasional litter in the area from plastics even diapers. Honestly, I never felt compelled to swim at this beach unlike the more pristine beach on the upper north of the beach. But good thing the beach is vast enough, I was able to find a good swimming spot walking further up where a river cuts through the long beach.

My concrete fan room

Spartan Accommodations

There are three types of rooms: The Fan Cottages, The fan room and the Aircon Room. I originally booked for the fan cottage but decided to upgrade to the concrete fan room as it felt more comfortable. The bed was big and was okay. Glad there were no bed bugs and I had some sound sleep. Most of the rooms here are really spartan. A bed, cheap looking linoleum flooring poorly placed, wooden walls and screened glass blind windows. Room actually have good space but lacks regular cleaning and maintenance. There were plenty of dead bugs, particularly bees, probably that has swarmed some nights before. Water is good but again cleanliness was not that top concern as there were tissue papers left probably by previous guest not cleaned out.

Cozy hammocks and lounge chairs

Summary

The Ursula Long Beach Traveler’s Inn is a place something a backpacker would be okay with. Local immersion, scenic beach and spartan rooms but casual tourist looking for a place to relax may be put off a little by the slight smell coming from the dried fish nearby and the so-so facilities. One thing where the resort really shines though is the friendliness of the family. They will really go out of their way to help guest out in what they need like booking tours, transportation and information. And their food here deserves a mention as well that sometimes I would think twice on dining out as they can whip out sumptuous dishes from what’s available. So there’s still charm on this resort if it fits your taste.

Ursula Long Beach Traveler’s Inn
Long Beach, Poblacion, San Vicente, Philippines

Check Rates and Book Online

The better beach part near the river

Dawn at the beach

The post San Vicente Stay | Ursula Long Beach Traveler’s Inn appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Ironwulf En Route on Pinterest

As a photographer, I’m a very visual person when it comes to planning trips. I’d like to know what I would see in a destination I’m visiting, hence it would give me an idea what to expect from a trip in terms of sceneries I would shoot. That way I would know what to bring as well. Pinterest has been one of my platform for collecting travel inspirations and ideas and organizing them efficiently. It’s a visual bookmarking platform to discover and save creative ideas. The Philippines now has a growing community of Pinterest users from travel, lifestyle and food. So it’s a good time to Pin it Pinas!

A collection of Philippine Waterfalls in my pinterest

My Pinterest Ways

I’ve been a member of Pinterest for more than two years now and had starting pinning images and ideas on my boards. On how I use it on my niche on travel?

• Collection of Images and Posts. It’s a great way to collect special interest topics like a collections of Waterfalls in the Philippines or White Sand Beaches destination. Nothing can beat visual enticement to visit a place. Pins can also have corresponding maps so people can know where the places are located.
• Trip Planning. Pinterest boards can be set to either public or private. If you don’t want people to see where you are planning to visit (for some reason) you can set boards to private and build it with pins from different resources.
• Anything Under the Sun. Pinterest is for everyone. If you have a new home and are getting ideas for decorating them, there’s a slew of home inspiration there. As for me, I like collect some gear, travel apparels, books I like to read and everything else.

Trip planning and inspiration with pinterest

Pin it Pinas!

Pinterest Philippines community is now here! Get a chance to discover and save creative ideas on your interest now. You can follow my Pinterest boards here. If you don’t have an account yet you can sign up here! See you there.

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Snorkeling at Imorigue Island

So you have done all the tours in El Nido Palawan from Tours A, B, C, D and E. The west side of El Nido, the Bacuit Bay in particular does have dramatic limestone karst islands and captivating beaches, but El Nido doesn’t end there. The other side, the El Nido east coast holds more islands to explore and stunning white sand beaches to bum around. Sibaltan is the jump off point for these island adventures. I have written about some of the islands of Linapacan, now discover the limestone island of Imorigue Island. From afar it looks daunting but the locals swear on how rich the marine life surrounding its waters are.

Imorigue Island seen from the side angle

Imorigue Island

We were on a small outrigger boat good only for about 6–8 people. I joined a foreign couple, judging from their language, they were from France which I have been used to hearing by now knowing a lot of French business men in El Nido. I was hoping I didn’t ruin their supposedly “Private Tour” with me tagging along but they don’t seem to mind. The waves were their usual self, not too rough and manageable and the sun was way up promising a good day. We were approaching Imorigue Island, and I got amused on how its shape changes as we got closer. From the shore, it looks like a small towering island, almost pyramid-like but when we were already beside it, I marvelled at its length. It’s like one of the many islands in Bacuit Bay that got lost somewhere and ended up on this side. There were also limestone walls where balinsasayaw (swiftlet) harvesters stay.

We passed by another islet towards the other end of the island. Under the island shade we stopped on our first snorkel spot. The water was deep blue and everyone was excited to jump in. The current was moderate and it was easy to swim in. The water clarity is not as good as the one in Binulbulan Island when we island-hopped Linapacan. But the corals here were quite expansive and impressive. I did not see the big fishes there but the tropical fishes were plenty. I had a good enough time to snorkel before we moved to our next stop.

The island view from the side with an islet

Some small fishes near this coral

Pristine set of corals

Our guide diving near the reef wall

Cabbage like corals fill the wall

A closer look at the coral

Malapari Islet and Dewil River mangrove on the next pages…

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As far as the eyes can see. San Vicente Long Beach

All eyes were on me. Somehow, my presence interrupted what seemed to be an early morning trade of freshly caught fish and other seafood. I was running the upper stretch of the San Vicente Long Beach in Palawan and just reached the rocky cliff cutting the long stretch of this white sand beach on the other side. I was already heading back when I caught this small crowd and it seems from their reaction, they don’t get as many visitors as early as this morning. “Magandang umaga po! Ano pong meron dyan? (Good morning! What’s in here?)” I asked, bringing out my best smile which seemed to have broken the tense and curios atmosphere. I was reciprocated with the genuine smiles from the locals and they went on with their bargains, weighing-in of goods and sale. I went on with my run back to where I started.

The San Vicente Long Beach seen from a hill

Undeveloped Beauty of a Beach

In my first few days of stay at JuRiSu Resort in the midst of San Vicente Long Beach, I have only seen one traveler, a foreigner, in that part of the beach. The first time I’ve actually stepped on the famed 14km white sand, I wanted to see for myself if the sand was as fine as people say. Yes it was, it felt soft under my feet. It stretches as far as the eyes can see with no marring structure to be seen. San Vicente has caught the eyes of developers already and much of the land are bought. Good thing the local government already have an ordinance of a no-build zone 50meters from the beach. This is also to safeguard any structure from high tide surge during unfavourable weather. From my wandering I’ve only stumbled upon Club Aguttaya, a posh boutique resort with pool nearing completion.

There were abundant growth of beach crawler plants, like the morning glories (ipomoea) adding greens and purples to this beautiful beach. It is also more than a relieving site since the extracts from their crushed leaves is a quick first aid salve for jellyfish stings. Good thing I had no use for it that time when I came to swim at the beach one afternoon. I saw a group of young kids enjoying their time on the beach and was enticed to take a splash as well. The beach has more rocks than sand which I really liked and the waves were playful. I stayed there until sundown even after the kids went ahead. The isolation was sort of a bliss. The purple sky calming and the clouds looking glorious with all those spilling lights.

Pure and pristine

Morning glories creeping to the beach

View to the northern side

Huts from the private resort Club Agutaya

Encounter with the locals of San Vicente

Wide, clear and swimmable

Sunset splendor and essential information on the next page…

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A life-size replica of a pangko in Sibaltan El Nido

There was a night in Sibaltan, El Nido where a group of performers from the Sibaltan Heritage Society (SHC) showcased a few Cuyonon folk dances. Cuyonons, are an ethno-linguistic group that originated from Cuyo Island. I watch at least five pairs of young boys and girls enthusiastically dance on the sand, under somewhat dim light of the night from Tapik Beach resort. The sound coming from a boom box was all treble with scratchy bass but the performance was all heart and passion as we could see the expressions from the young performers as they execute dance steps highly Spanish-influenced, often upbeat to jumpy with a lot of swirl movements from the girl. I could not understand the lyrics but I was told these dances are often about Cuyonon life – livelihood, courtship, marriage that are often depicted with witty naughtiness to slightly obscene which is a character of Cuyonon songs. Watching this humble spectacle made me imagine how the Cuyonons manage to cross the Sulu Seas, traversing at least 100 nautical miles to reach the shores of Paragua, what we know now as the land of Palawan. The newly built Pangko Maritime Museum in Sibaltan, sheds some light into the history of Cuyonon migration.

Museum grounds in Sibaltan

The Pangko Maritime Museum

My motorbike driver cautiously rode the narrow dirt path hemmed by a growth of coconut trees. Once a while, glancing above to see if any old coconuts or leaves are are ready to fall out. I remember this road before, north of the town after the school and basketball court. It leads to a small community by a river with heavy growth of mangroves. I visited this place after checking out Sibaltan’s first museum the Balay Cuyonon. The Pangko Maritime Museum would be the second museum in town.

Pangko is a Cuyonon term for “sakayan” which means “to ride or a ship”. It is also what they call the traditional boat used by Cuyonons to venture the seas from Cuyo Island to Palawan. With little agricultural land left on the small island, Cuyonons decided to explore the mainland of El Nido Palawan and use it to rice planting. Pangkos were then used regularly both as a passenger and merchandise vessel from mainland to Cuyo island vice versa. Some Cuyonons opted to stay in Palawan since then. Pangkos were used until the 1950s but the heavy storms which often caused the vessels to capsize lead it to evolve to motorize boats to manage navigating on rough seas. “Lantsa” modern motorized soon replaced the pangko and eventually ceased to be used.

Cuyonon Anthropologist, Carlos Fernandez, asked SHC if there are still existing pangko in Sibaltan when he visited in 2012. Sadly, there was non but research yielded detailed descriptions care of the elders who used them before. The idea to build a replica of a pangko materialized when SHC received funding from the American Alliance of Museums through the project proposal from Ms Lace Thornberg for “Ancient Shores, Changing Tides” in July 2013. It was in April 2014 when five carpenters began construction of the pangko replica led by Mr Pablo Eleazar, the only carpenter currently alive who have experience building a pangko.

On the deck of the pangko

Onboard the Pangko

At first look the replica of the boat at the Pangko Maritime Museum is similar to a balangay from Butuan. It measures 13 meters long, the hull seems bigger and more depth than a balangay. I had to use a ladder to go up the boat. The plank woodwork is excellent. The deck has an even ground with a low-lying hut on top. There’s access below the deck where earthen jars, baskets and other tools used by Cuyonons are in display. The hut also have some tools, interestingly with Cuyonon names. The most popular section of the boat though is the native toilet seat with an opening straight to the sea. Unfortunately some of the tools were missing. I was told by the caretaker that some of them were “borrowed” which was personally quite amusing. It was a good effort for the local tourism and SHC to bring to life the pangko with this replica which will strengthen Sibaltan as the cultural side of El Nido Palawan. As I sit on the deck looking at the sea, I can half imagine the journey the Cuyonons did to reach this land. Now I wonder if this pangko is sea-worthy.

The low hut with items on display

Cuyonon names with items

Under the deck

Earth jars and baskets used by Cuyonons

On the deck looking out to the sea

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