Vitamin Sea Travels: Summer Escapade at Laiya

Batangas is famous for its summer destinations especially if you are living in Metro Manila, it takes a few hours away to visit the vacation spots in the said province. Therefore, Batangas is very popular for stunning, verdant mountains if you want to experience mountain climbing, but it is more popular for its beaches and resorts due to its location which is surrounded by bodies of water. There are towns known for its resorts and beaches located in the coastal towns of Nasugbu, Lian, Calatagan, Balayan, Lemery, Lobo and the island municipality of Tingloy. Don't also forget to visit San Juan, Batangas, the home of the famous Laiya Beach. 

Lush vegetation and coconut trees surrounded the coast of Laiya.

A relaxing view of the beach from the cottage and ideal place for walking.

The landscapes of Laiya Beach showing its pure beauty due to its turquoise waters, white sand and limestone rock formations.

San Juan, Batangas is the easternmost town in the province known for its historical sites such as the Baroque church and the Pinagbayanan excavation, an archaeological site in the town. The municipality is also facing the Tayabas Bay. In fact, the town is very popular because of its powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and sedimentary rock formations hit by the strong waves. It is also one of the famous tourist destinations in Batangas and it is also a setting for some movies and television series.

We had a chance to visit a developing beach resort in Laiya where we are the only people who occupied the beach on that day. We enjoyed a lot in swimming, discovered sea creatures near the coast such as jelly fish, star fish, small crabs and sea cucumber and enjoyed the company in a typical excursion. Therefore during my spare time, I was able to take pictures of the seascape and interesting sights in the beach.

The Coast when the Sun is High...

The coast featured not only powdery white sand but also limestones and pebbles teemed in the shore.
It is also interesting to see fragmented corals and shells in the sand as well with small crabs running along the shore. 

The resort that we stayed in is rich in lush vegetation and tall coconut trees. 
There are only five cottages there and a rest room where you can take a bath before going to the sea.

The powdery white sand matched with its turquoise waters with a single log in a shore.

The Rock Formations

The huge and rough limestones in the beach.

The Waves Hitting the Rocks in the Shore

Just an experiment on how the waves hit the rocks through a collage.

Clarity of the Blue Sea 

The clear waters in the shore 

The swirling waves hitting the sandy shore.

It is interesting to see transparent water very close from the vast, blue sea.

The fascinating blue water from the rocks with a view of another beach and green mountain.

The Coast in Low Tide and Before Sunset

The spectacular view of the sea from the coast during the afternoon.

Low tide is evident during this time where the rocks which are underwater earlier are now seen.

Laiya Beach during low tide. It is exciting to see sea creatures in this rocky shores such as star fish,
sea weeds and even sea cucumbers.

There are many beautiful sights in this place. On the other hand, tourists should also take care of this place because there are pieces of trash such as plastic bottles and plastic bags are found in the shoreline or inserted within the rocks. It is also one of the reasons why the town set P20.00 Ecological Fee in order to take care of the nature. Therefore, we need to become responsible enough in taking care of our beaches or else, the government will declare a shut down just what happened to Boracay to maintain the cleanliness and improve the place. So, we need to start taking care of our beaches and maintain the pristine beauty of it just like in San Juan, Batangas. 

The travel experience in Laiya is an amazing journey. I noticed that I experienced to take the Vitamin Sea after 8 to 9 years (the last time was in Palawan way back 2011). Going to the beaches is not only having fun and recreation with family and friends, but also we need to take care of our nature and maintain the natural beauty of it. 

How to Get There?

From Manila, you may ride a bus going to San Juan, Batangas. You may enjoy a 3-4 hours travel passing South Luzon Expressway and STAR Tollway and you may take either Lipa or Ibaan Exit, passing the towns of Lipa, Ibaan and Rosario. From the municipal hall, you may also ride a Laiya-Hugom jeepney. Remember, the last jeepney departing to Laiya leaves at 5:00 PM. There are also tricycles that are willing to take you to Laiya. Also, you may ride a bus going to Lipa. From there, you may ride a jeepney or van to San Juan. 

Date of Travel: April 16, 2018

Heritage Nostalgia at the Museum of the Filipino People

American actor, Brad Pitt once said "It's a lovely experience walking around a museum by yourself." I always have the habit of traveling alone, especially visiting historical sites and museums. It is my childhood dream to visit museums especially during educational tours when I was still schooling. It was a very rare opportunity to visit these places especially if I have to allot a schedule despite of hectic working days.  

The Museum of the Filipino People which was the former building of Department of Finance. 

During the celebration of Heritage Month last May 2017, I was able to visit the National Art Gallery to see the popular art works of Filipino artists from different historical periods in our country. This time, I decided to visit The Museum of the Filipino People. It is located in Agrifina Circle, next to the main National Museum, which is the National Art Gallery and the building was the former headquarters of Department of Finance.

An Ayangan house from the ancient town of Henengan, now known as Mayaoyao.

Since there is a free admission in the National Museum, I had the opportunity to visit and explore the museum. When I entered the museum, I visited the model of Ifugao house known as Ayangan. It was taken from the town of Mayaoyao, Ifugao. The abodes of the Ifugao are reflected based on their regional geography and sub-groups. The heavily thatched roof serves as protection against the rain and the cold weather of the region.

Religious images made of ivory.

Elephant tusks were used as an ivory 

Ivories were taken from sperm whale and wild pigs.

After that, I entered at the Garing: The Philippines at the Crossroads of Ivory Trade. Garing is a Tagalog word for ivory. This gallery contains different collections of tusks from elephants, whales and boars which considered as good source of ivory. In fact, the Philippines is one of the centers of ivory trade in the past and recently, the trade was prohibited in order to preserve the elephants.

The model of the San Diego.

An astrolabe used during the 16th century.

Cannons and cannon balls were used in maritime battles during the Age of Exploration.

An anchor.

The portrait of Spanish chronicler Antonio de Morga and his famous works about the Philippines.

Astronomical ring dial recovered from the San Diego Galleon Wreck.

After that, I went to the other galleries in the second level - The San Diego Exhibit and the 500 Years of Maritime Trade Before the Arrival of Western Colonizers. It is amazing to see the different artifacts such as collection of jars, clay pots, porcelains, cannons, sunken ship models and navigational devices. The galleries at the second level put me back in time during the pre-colonial times where ancient Filipinos are doing the barter with Asian traders and the adventurous maritime expeditions of the European colonizers in order to achieve their power to become an empire. I also imagined the several days of sea travel to explore new lands as well with the chronicler's journals written in black ink, ancient maps, compass and astrolabe used in navigation before the existence of travel blogs, GPS and Google maps.

Different clay jars from the Philippines and other Asian countries. 

Chinese porcelain plates.

Chinese porcelain kitchen set

Porcelain kitchenware from the ruins of a shipwreck.

Old clay jars and metal instruments from the remains of the shipwreck.

On the third level of the museum, I also had the chance to discover the indigenous Filipino culture through Kaban ng Lahi: Archaeological Treasures and Lumad Mindanao. I've had the chance to see the Manunggul Jar, a burial jar used by the ancient Filipinos which was excavated in Palawan during the 1960's.

The Manunggal Jar

I also visited the section called Lumad Mindanao. It features the different artifacts and materials such as indigenous musical instruments, colorful tribal costumes and household materials from the tribes living in Mindanao. There are also sections for Rice Farming in the Philippines, History of Writing and Weaving in the Philippines.

Therefore, I've had a chance to come back again in this museum and to explore more of the Philippine culture. Discovering the anthropological and archaeological roots of our country is very interesting in order to explore the traces of our Asian identity as a Filipino.

*This post is intended for the National Heritage Month to promote museums and discover our cultural heritage.

Date of Travel: December 17, 2016

The Other Side of the Scenic Panorama: La Virginia Resort

Some tourists witnessed the scenic panorama of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano from the highlands of Alfonso and Tagaytay City in Cavite as well in the towns of Talisay and Laurel in Batangas. In fact,  there are tourists who visited the other side of the panorama where they can see the bird's eye view of Tagaytay City

Recently, I had a chance to visit the small town of Mataas Na Kahoy in Batangas due to team building activity. The small town is located next to Lipa City and Balete. The town is known for its cool climate due to its high elevation of 379 meters. There are many resorts in the town and La Virginia is one of the popular tourist destinations found in this place.

The dolphin pool teemed with the lush green mountains in the background together with the view of Taal Lake.

The infinity pool where you can enjoy the view of Taal Lake.

The view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano from Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas.

This highland resort is an ideal place for team building activities. In fact, there are many games to be done in this place because of its hilly terrain and plenty of swimming pools and life-sized images ranging from fairy tales, cartoon and Biblical characters. For example, our school enjoyed the Amazing Race for our yearly team building activity and it is amazing to share that I would like to come back in this place. 

Date of Travel: April 11, 2017

Visita Iglesia: Pilgrimage at the Highlands

I always have my Visita Iglesia or Pilgrimage in my home town, Cavite. This year, I decided to explore the churches in the highlands. In fact. I went to seven churches located in the upland towns of Cavite namely Alfonso, Mendez and Tagaytay City. 

The belfry of the church.

The facade of San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Church located in Alfonso, Cavite

San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Church

Alfonso

The first church that I visited this year was the San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Church located in the poblacion or town center of the highland town, Alfonso. It became a town in 1859 and the church was established in 1861 where Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Maria was the first parish priest of the town. It is one of the oldest churches in Cavite which is depicted in its architecture. 

The facade of Saint Augustine Parish Church in Mendez.

Saint Augustine Parish Church

Mendez

The next church that I visited is the Saint Augustine Parish Church. It is located in the center of the small yet peaceful town of Mendez, Cavite. Its notable feature is the twin bell towers and the only one in Cavite.  It was established in 1881 and it celebrated its 300th anniversary last 2015. 

The facade of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tagaytay City.

Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Church

Tagaytay City 

It is known as the healing church, it was established in 1940 by the Order of Friars Capuchin. The place is very ideal for weddings because of its beautiful landscape and cool climate. The parish is located in the heart of Tagaytay City along the Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway.

The facade of Tierra de Maria with the image of Our Lady of Manaoag. 

Our Lady of Manaoag at Tierra de Maria 

Tagaytay City 

The Tierra de Maria was established twenty years ago by the late Bro. Jiggers G. Alejandrino. The church now is run by his widow and their children and it is also a place of healing and worship for Catholic devotees of the Our Lady of Manaoag. 

Ina ng Laging Saklolo Parish Church

Tagaytay City

A few minutes away from Tierra de Maria, the Ina ng Laging Saklolo which is located along Tagaytay-Calamba Highway. The church is also operated with Order of Capuchin Friars, the same with Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. 

Angels Hills Retreat and Formation Center

Angel's Hills Retreat and Formation Center

Tagaytay City

It is one of the prayer houses located in Arnoldus Road and this is the sixth church that I visited. It is located near various religious centers including the Pink Sisters Chapel. 

The Pink Sisters Adoration Convent of Divine Mercy

Tagaytay City 

A few minutes walk from the Angels Hills, I went to the Pink Sisters Convent located in Tagaytay City. It is a very popular convent which was visited by tourists and religious devotees, the place is known for nuns who are wearing pink uniforms and a relaxing place filled with trees and plants. 

I also want to visit the Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Amadeo, Cavite but it was already late due to the approaching evening. Therefore, it is always a pleasure and religious practice to do the Pilgrimage to the Seven Churches even in our hometown in order to profess our faith and reflect to all the things that we have done that God saved us from challenges and the fact that we are blessed with opportunities in life. 

You may also read Visita Iglesia: Historical Churches in Cavite 

Date of Travel: April 12, 2017

Travel Throwback: A Visit to the Iconic Churches of Metro Manila

Metro Manila is known as the place where there are plenty of traffic jams, busy metropolitan scenario, hectic schedule of the people and the urban atmosphere. Despite of the city ambiance in the Metro, there are preserved religious treasures that played an important role in the history of the region and the fact that National Capital Region (NCR) is an ideal place for Visita Iglesia. The urban area is populous yet accessible to transportation modes.

The San Sepulcro Parish Church in Laguna was visited by many devotees during Holy Week.

The first church that I visited which is located outside the south of Metro Manila is the San Sepulcro Parish Church in San Pedro City, Laguna. The church is near in my home town. In addition, the church is popular among religious devotees especially during the Holy Week where the miraculous Jesus in Holy Sepulchre, also known as Lolo Uweng can be found here. It is a pilgrim's place for healing since some devotees believed that Lolo Uweng may grant your wishes and heal your illnesses through praying.

Saint Peregrine Laziosi Church

I also visited the Saint Peregrine Laziosi Church in Tunasan, Muntinlupa City. Saint Peregrine is the patron saint of the cancer patients. It became a parish on 1985 and it is under the pastoral care of the Order of Servants of Mary. In addition, there are many testimonies of healing happened in this church.

Saint Joseph Parish Church, the home of Las Pinas Bamboo Organ

From Muntinlupa, I went to Las Pinas City to visit one of the historical churches, the Saint Joseph Parish Church. It houses the cultural treasure, the Las Pinas Bamboo Organ a pipe organ made mostly with bamboo pipes. It was completed by Father Diego Cera in 1824, the builder of the town's stone church and the first resident Catholic parish priest. It was shipped to Germany in 1972 for restoration because it was unplayable for a long period of time due to ages and numerous disasters. The organ was returned in 1975 and it became a National Cultural Treasure in 2003.

The Las Pinas Bamboo Organ, a National Cultural Treasure.

The Saint Andrew Cathedral in Paranaque City is the next stop for this pilgrimage. Built in 1590, it is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The church is the seat of Roman Catholic Diocese of Paranaque that comprises the cities of Paranaque, Las Pinas and Muntinlupa.

Saint Andrew Cathedral

A few minutes away from the town proper, the National Shrine of Our Mother or Perpetual Help also known as the Redemptorist Church located in Baclaran. It is a prominent Catholic national shrine located in Roxas Boulevard, it enshrines the icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. It is also historical where the late Pope John Paul II visited the church on 1981. Prior to that, he first celebrated the Holy Eucharist here as the Cardinal - Archbishop of Krakow as Karol Jozef Wojtyla on 1973.

Baclaran Church

I visited again the Malate Church, Santa Cruz Church and Binondo Church after two years which was my first Visita Iglesia in Manila. There are renovations made in the church especially in Malate and Binondo as part of the restoration program of the heritage sites in Manila. In addition, I also walked from Santa Cruz Church passing the Chinatown in order to make it in Binondo Church.

Malate Church

The facade of Santa Cruz Church 

The Binondo Church with its renovated facade.

Lastly, I also visited the San Sebastian Church in Quiapo. Recently, the church has encountered threats to structural integrity where there are rust and corrosion in its steel structure due to sea breeze near the Manila Bay. In fact, the San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation Inc. holds day tours in the church. During the visit, there are tour guides who tell us the story of the church and the advocacy of preserving the National Cultural Treasure.

The Basilica Minore de San Sebastian is the only steel church in the Philippines.

The tour guide is telling the advocacy of preserving the San Sebastian Church.

The interior of the steel church.

Despite of the urban life in the Metro, these religious structures are still treasured by the local government and the Catholic church. They went to restoration programs by doing major renovations in their structure because they want to preserve these cultural treasures in order to save our heritage not just from natural disasters but also to continue the Filipino cultural legacy in our society up to the future. 

You may also read this article Visita Iglesia: Heritage Churches in Manila 

Date: March 24, 2016