Breathtaking Batanes

10:41 PM
It's almost a year before I finally decided to make this post. I just wanna share one of the best travels I had so far. I was in Singapore when my friends invited me to join them in a trip to Batanes since there's a ticket sale for this dream destination of ours. We agreed on a date and finally they booked for round-trip tickets good for a week stay. With me are my high school buddies who were also with me during the Vietnam Trip and additional travel buddies.

Batanes is the northernmost group of islands in the Philippines and is known for its beautiful landscapes. Travelling here is quite difficult as weather can be harsh especially during the rainy season. The universe conspired for us and we finally reached Batanes on the day without any delay. The weather was cloudy and cool, which was perfect for strolling and exploring.

Day 1. Arriving Basco Airport via Clark. Kapian capa nu dios!

The mekmekers sets foot at Batanes! Adventure starts now in #BreathtakingBatanes!


We stayed at the quiet town of Basco in a house which we rented. We got the house for ourselves and we got separate rooms, a living room and a kitchen. The caretakers also cook for us if we wanted to have our meals there. It was very good location. The plaza is just a few meters away and there are lots of stores and shops in the neighborhood, too.

We don't have a tour on our first day yet. So we explored the town and went to the nearby Naidi Hills which has a beautiful lighthouse on top of the hill! This building are remains of an American period telegraph house which was used as a set in the indie film "Sakaling Hindi Makarating."😍⛰🏠

The famous lighthouse in Naidi Hill at Basco, Batanes with Mt. Iraya at the back. Bucketlist checked!

The viewing deck is a perfect location to view the whole of Batan Island (the main island where Basco is located) from end to end, including Mount Iraya. One can also have a clear view of Sabtang Island in the south of Basco and Itbayat Island to the north.

The Basco Lighthouse is a 6-storey building with a gallery or viewing deck on the fifth floor. Located next to the 66 feet (20 m) tower is a dwelling of vernacular architecture. Traditional Ivatan houses are made with stone or rubble masonry.

Cathedral of Immaculate Conception Basco, Batanes 😍⛪🙏

Day 2. We had a morning tour at the northern part of Batanes island. Our first stop is here at the hills where the PAG-ASA radar station is located. At the back are mountains with man-made "hedgerows" called  "liveng" which looks like giant maze made of tall grass or bamboo.

Our next stop is a hilltop lodge "Fundacion Pacita", owned by the Abads and has a restaurant and art gallery. It's also a famous wedding destination. Here's a wonderful wall mosaic with a greeting "Dios Mamajes" which means "God reward you with goodness" or simply "God Bless you."

Wonderful stonehouse cabin for guest with a breathtaking view of the mountains and seas.

Valugan Boulder beach facing the vast Pacific Ocean.


Closer view of the "liveng". Tall rows of reeds, trees, grass, or piled stones used as crop protection from wind, typhoons or sea breeze. They make Batanes landscape appear like vast collection of labyrinths. They prevent soil erosion and double as demarcation lines or boundaries of farms.🌿⛰😍💚


Our last stop is at the northernmost part of the isalnds, Vayang Rolling hills.

At the top of the grassy hills with a beautiful view.

The winding road at the top of the hills with cows casually roaming around.

We went back to the lighthouse hoping to see a beautiful sunset, and we were not disappointed!
Love this shot!


Groufie! End of Day 2!

Day 3. We went south to the island of Sabtang. It is accessible via a 30-minute ride aboard the "faluwa," the bigger traditional Ivatan boat. Like the tataya, the Ivatan dory, they do not have outriggers (katig), either. They say every ride is quite an experience.

Upon arriving the seaport at Sabtang, tricycles like these wait for tourists to offer them an island tour. The roof resembles the cogon roof of the stone houses.

Our first stop is at the picturesque "Chamantad Viewdeck" which is a vast hilly area with a view of the Pacific Ocean. Here I am enjoying the sun and pacific breeze at the top of the hill.

Chamantad viewdeck is a famous location for music videos and wedding shoots. The green grass reminds me of the LOTR and the Hobbit movies.


Then, we went to the village of Chavayan, famous for the Ivatan stone houses. Chavayan came from the word cha, which means bountiful, and vay, which is the arrowroot plant that was known as the most distinct plant on the island. Vayan, on the other hand, means community.

These are called vakul, an Ivatan woven headdress used by women to shield the locals from the harsh elements.🌿⛅

One of my dream photos is with these pre-colonial stone houses. Chavayan is an old Ivatan village that is most known for its stone houses, some of which are over 100 years old now. This style of construction was introduced by the Spanish when they arrived in the last half of the 1800s and quickly proved perfect for the region, which is prone to strong winds and frequent typhoons. Their roofs are made of thatched cogon (a tall type of grass found throughout Southeast Asia) and are replaced every 25-30 years, depending on the thickness.

Wearing the Ivatan men's attire. A cogon vest and a bamboo woven hat.

Built inside a cove and surrounded by jagged mountains, this ancient fishing village of Chavayan is probably the most well-preserved village in the whole Batanes region.😍⛰💕

Fun shoot with the buddies.💕

Our next stop is at the Morong Beach famous for this wonderful natural rock formation called "Nakabuang Arch". We had lunch in a resto by the beach.


We ended the day with a walk around the towns near the seaport. Check out the photos here:

We stayed overnight at a house we rented which is just a walk away from the sea port. At the back of our house is a hill and there this beautiful lighthouse made of stone. It looks so majestic during sunset with the peach skies.

Day 4. We went back to Batanes Island. We sent out postcards to ourselves which is one of our bucketlists inspired by the movie "Sakaling Hindi Makarating." We went to Philbrews Cafe and had merienda and coffee. It was so delicious!


Day 5. We enjoyed a dip at the cool spring pool known as the "Fountain of Youth" or "Rakuh A Idi Spring"

Like paradise on earth, I did feel more youthful at the fountain of youth! Char.

Going to our next destination, we are welcomed with this majestic view of the coast and hills of central Batanes.

After the awesome swim, we went back to Fundacion Pacita to have lunch which we pre-booked. The first time we went here, we weren't able to dine because it was full. The ambience of this resto is just beautiful! And their food is amazing!

The reason why their food is great is because Cafe du Tukon uses organic ingredients produced by Ivatan locals, who has great respect for the environment.

 What a great place to chill. This window view is what dream houses are made of.

Indeed, It's more fun in the Philippines!

Before we end today's tour, we stopped by this unique stone church known as the "Tukon Chapel". It sits humbly atop a foothill, an eye-catcher made of stone as though offered by the greenery to the restless skies. Tukon means “mountain” in the Ivatan language, an apt name as it covers generally rugged terrain that lies in the shadow of Mt. Iraya. From here, one can admire the mischievous waves of both the West Philippine Sea and the roaring Pacific.💒😍⛰💚

After arriving home, we decided to go for a tour to catch the sunset. We rented motorbikes and rode north to Vayang rolling hills which is just a few kilometers from the town.

Since we had more time, we wandered more at the area and saw these picture-perfect spots where we can see the rollings hills.

We waited for the sunset, hoping that the clouds won't cover the view.

Indeed, the wait was worth it! The view was truly breath-taking and perhaps one of the best sunsets I've seen in my life! It was more special witnessing it with my friends.

The sky turns into a fiery sea of clouds as the sun sleeps at the horizon.

Day 6. Batanes South Tour. We go down south to explore the islands beauty. We pass by the Batanes Boat Shelter Port. Inaugurated in 2007, the shelter port was built to protect Batan Island’s boats from the area’s mercurial weather. It has since become a popular stop on the South Batan tour. 😍⛵🏞

Chawa Viewdeck. It gives you a wonderful view of our cliffs and it even has a steep staircase that will lead you to the bottom coastline. 🏞🌊⛰😍

Feeling like a daredevil at Chawa viewdeck.

Hailed as the “Marlboro country” of Batanes, Racuh A Payaman is a protected location in the island of Batan in Batanes where everyone is dreaming for to visit. A trail to its hills will give you pleasure that only nature can afford to give.⛰🐃🌬🌊💚

The iconic "Blow Ur Horn" singage of Batanes with the Alapad Pass at the background.


Honesty Cafe. The only kind of cafe in the country where there are no cashiers or waiters!

The oldest stonehouse in Batanes, the House of Dakay.

Inside the oldest stonehouse with vakuls and traditional hats. It feels so cozy inside!

The Ivatan couple in their natural habitat.

Posing with the Ivatan attire at the oldest Ivatan stone house!


No one seems to know where the camera is. lol

Before heading back home, we passed by the San Carlos Borromeo Church, a stone and lime church which is declared as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum.

Day 7. We bought souvenirs and went back home. It was such an awesome trip and we're truly happy to finally do our dream destination. Batanes is truly a gem of the north and we really recommend everyone to experience it even once in their lifetime. More than the tourist spots, you'll get to know the gentle and resilient Ivatans who has great respect to one another and nature. Thanks to my travel buddies for making this a reality. Their company, the laughter, the stories and memories we made during the trip will be one that I'll truly cherish for the rest of my life! Dios Mamajes!

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83rd Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga

10:35 PM
The City Government of Zamboanga will once again spearhead the celebration of the charter anniversary of the City of Zamboanga in a month-long lineup of events and competitions including Zamboanga Music RunVolution, Zamboanga Film Festival, Drum & Lyre, HipHop Dance and Cheerdance Competitions and more. The main highlight of the 83rd Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga is on February 26 which will feature the Civic-Military Parade, Awarding of Local Achievers and the comeback of the Field Demo Competition. Registration for contest are ongoing. Check out the lineup of events below.

Zamboanga Film Festival 2020
Are you ready to hit the big screen? We will roll out another edition of the Zamboanga Film Festival 2020 this February as we celebrate the 83rd Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga! Fix your storyline, grab your cameras and assemble the crew! Download the guidelines and application form here: https://tiny.cc/ZFF2020

Zamboanga Open Cheerdance Competition 2020
Hola, Zamboanga! The biggest cheerdance competition in the City is back and ready to grab the spotlight this February! Calling all squads to register for our Open and High School categories! Limited slots only! Download the guidelines and entry form here: http://tiny.cc/ZamboCheerdance2020

Zamboanga Hiphop Dance Competition 2020
Are you ready to channel your inner diva? 💃The biggest hip-hop dance battle in the City will once again take the centerstage this February with the eargasmic discography of the decade's best pop divas! Are you up for the challenge? Calling all dance crews to join the Zamboanga Hip Hop Dance Competition 2020: Pop Diva Challenge!
Elimination Round: February 8, 1PM, Centro Latino
Final Round: February 24, 1PM, City Coliseum
Dowload the guidelines and entry form here: http://tiny.cc/ZamboHipHop2020

Inter-school Drum & Lyre Competition
Feel again the fiesta vibe this February as we hype up the Dia de Zamboanga celebration with our Drum and Lyre Competition for elementary and secondary schools in the City! Register now! Limited slots only!

Zamboanga Music RunVolution 4.0
IT'S BACK! Tala your way in our P-Pop dance station this year for the Zamboanga Music Runvolution 4.0! Dance every step of the way from the Buttefly Garden to the Climaco Freedom Park! There will be seven dance stations this year (rock, hiphop, neo ethnic, latin, p-pop, retro & k-pop) in this one of a kind fun run in the City!

Zamboanga Field Demo Competition
The iconic Field Demo Competition at the grandstand is back this February for our Dia de Zamboanga celebration! Join the flabbergasting display of colors and synchronized movements on the field! Open to all high schools in the City! Register now! Limited slots only! Download the guidelines and entry form here: http://tiny.cc/ZamboFieldDemo2020

Mas Alegre ahora na Zamboanga! For more information and updates, like the official Facebook page: Zamboanga Hermosa Festival and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @zambocitygovt. Shoot, post and share using the official hashtags #DiaDeZamboanga #iLoveZamboangaCity
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Hermosa Festival Photography Competition 2019 Winners

2:23 PM
The Hermosa Photography Competition is one of the final events of the month-long festival. Photographers, both amateur and professionals, have captured the colors of the festivities and it's time to pick the best photos and give it a shot in this competition. This year, the theme is "Mas Alegre Ahora Na Zamboanga" which means "It's more Fun today in Zamboanga". There are five categories: Bailes y Canciones (Dancing and Singing), Mascota de Zamboanga, Parade of Lights (Float Competition), Regatta de Zamboanga and Streetdance Competition. All entries will compete for the Top 5 Grand Prizes and if they don't make it, finalists or the top entries will be chosen per category. Here are the finalists and grand winners of this year's Hermosa Photography Competition.

BAILES Y CANCIONES CATEGORY FINALSTS:

41. “Alegre el Sol”
Jose Mari Katipunan (@jmkatipunan)
Nikon D5300 (ISO 400, 1/125, f/5.6)
“The man in the photograph represents the Sun. His happiness is to be the light of his people.”


35. “The Golden Smile”
Jesus Normel R. Alfanta (@jesusalfanta)
Canon 80D (ISO 100, 1/200, f/5)
“A beautiful well designed costume for the opening of the Hermosa Festival. This young lady was caught by my lens with her lovely smile. Indeed it’s a hot afternoon with the heavy costume on her head but she still project with a Golden Smile.”


79. “Adornao”
Ramil G. Valente (@ramilgarciavalente)
Samsung Galaxy J5 (ISO 64, 1/190, f/1.9)
“It took me a while to better compose my subject with the use of my mobile phone. I shot at low angle to capture the intricate design of this man’s sari-manok inspired costume and waited for him to make the composition interesting.”

MASCOTA DE ZAMBOANGA CATEGORY FINALSTS:

43. “Nuestra Mascota”
Jose Mari Katipunan (@jmkatipunan)
Nikon D5300 (ISO 400, 1/125, f/6.3)
“Represents the fierce, beauty, and leadership of a true Zamboangueña.”


24. “Resiliente Zamboangueña”
Roy Fernando (@roydfernando)
Canon EOS R (ISO 100, 1/20, f/1.4)
“The people of Zamboanga City believes that there’s a light in every darkness. They have the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties and trials with their underlying faith to the La Virgen del Pilar that gives them hope and aspiration.”


51. “GEM of the NIGHT”
Danica Rose L. Tubilla (@nikkinanoot)
Canon EOS 1000D (ISO 1600, 1/400, f/2.5)
“The Beauty of art that never changes and the smile of every priceless woman.”

PARADE OF LIGHTS(FLOAT COMPETITION)CATEGORY FINALISTS:

47. “City Hall Meets City Hall”
Clarence M. Dabasol (@clarence.dwg)
Go Pro Hero5 Black (ISO 400, 1/35, f/20)
“A City Hall inspired design illuminated float that signifies landmark and history of Zamboanga City captivates the eye of Zamboangueños during the parade of lights event.”


169. “Alegria en Colores Dinamicos”
Christian G. Quilalang (@chanquillx)
Fujifilm X-T20 (ISO 640, 1/2, f/5.6)
“The vibrant and dynamic colors speak about the joyous celebration in Zamboanga City. As a photographer, using slow shutter speed and external flash excites me to shoot during Parade of Lights. The motion, cheerful smile in the face of the subject and the colorful light trails across the frame will definitely make you say “Mas Alegre Ahora na Zamboanga.” ”

REGATTA DE ZAMBOANGA CATEGORY FINALSTS:

20. “Espejo na Mar”
Marlon Gonzalez (@marlongonzalez2015)
SM-G925F S6 Edge (ISO 40, 1/848, f/1.9)
“Mirror of the Sea.”


3. “Reflexion”
Aris A. Bellen (@TestTubeBaby24)
Nikon D7100 (ISO 1250, 1/100s, f/1.8)
“The afternoon rain did not stop the parade of lights from brightening up the streets of downtown Zamboanga with illuminated floats. There is something about the thousands of glittering lights, the veil of nighttime that almost makes this scene beautiful and really stand out especially in the reflection of water. It reminds us that like water which can clearly mirror anything so long as its surface is undisturbed, the mind can only reflect the true image of the self when it is tranquil and wholly relaxed.”


13. “Pequeña Sonrisa (Little Smile)”
Al-Rashed Ambutong (@mrshedd01)
Nikon D90 (ISO 200, 1/100s, f/5/6)
“The purest smile you can get from someone is a smile from a child. In this photo is a child beaming with an unscathed laughter seeing his father prepping for the competition not minding how stressful the activity was. The little smile this boy has can make anyone's heart jump for joy. Truly, it is more fun in Zamboanga City.”


1. “Carrera de Vintas”
Aris A. Bellen (@TestTubeBaby24)
Nikon D7100 (ISO 100, 1/400s, f/1.8)
“From the hundreds of vintas with their rainbow sails of all shapes and sizes about to participate in the annual sailboat race called Regatta de Zamboanga, nothing can stop this man from joining the tradition. Despite his old age, he remained true to who he has always been: the proud nomadic person, who watched over the infinite waters of Zamboanga.”


112. “Risas Y Riquezas”
Stephen Dale T. Dela Peña (@stephenddp)
Nikon (ISO 100, 1/500, F/1.8)
“The subject genuinely shows the “peace” sign as a symbol of tolerance and understanding despite of the diverse beliefs and culture the Zamboanga has. Hence, the photo depicts the contentment and real happiness, making the image genuine and full of colors.”


7. “Bless the Riders of the Colorful Vintas”
Andrei Rabon (@andreirabon)
Canon EOS 1300D (ISO 100, 1/1000, f/5.6)
“Go Forward! Stable and strong even the stormy waters will never stop their vintas sailing in the sea.”

STREETDANCE CATEGORY FINALSTS:

14. “Nothing Shakes a Culture of Smile”
Al-Rashed Ambutong (@mrshedd01)
Nikon D90 (ISO 200, 1/200s, f/13)
“Resiliency is one of the city's main ingredients why it has become one of the country's top performing cities. Even after the destruction brought by the infamous Zamboanga Seige, the people of zamboanga stood firm and moved forward towards where it is now - an economically feasible city. Zamboanga fought hard wearing the only shield they have: SMILE. No matter how hard those hurdles can be, nothing can beat a person with a pure smile and strong heart.”


25. “Bailando Con Pasion”
Roy Fernando (@roydfernando)
Canon EOS R (ISO 200, 1/8192, f/1.4)
“The girls are having fun dancing in the streets despite of the heat and distance to give tribute and devotion in the honor of the Lady of Pilar.”


36. “Muestra tu Cultura”
Jojo E. Lacerona (@joe_lacerona58) Huawei P20 Pro (ISO 100, 1/4000, f/1.8)
“ “Muestra tu Cultura” a Spanish term meaning to “show your culture”. Yakan culture is known for being talented, in terms of singing, instrument playing, weaving and dancing. The Yakan cultural dance shows the boldness of their ethnicity.”


38. “Pansak (Dance)”
Al-Qaam Kingking (@alqkk_15)
Nikon D5200
“Streetdancing competition is the most awaited activity in the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, because in this way they would be able to showcase the rich culture of Zamboanga City. One of the performers came from the indigenous inhabitants of the island province of Basilan, the Yakan. They are also known for being good dancers due to their traditional cycle of the rice production that is done through dancing with hand gestures and footwork stances.”


61. “Curva de Felicidad”
Gennel Jude N. Batacan (@batacangennel)
Nikon D3100 (ISO 720, 1/4000, f/5.3)
“The sexiest curve of our body is our smile. In life, I sometimes bend hoping not to break. Bends and zigzags are really common in life especially to us Zamboangueños. Yet we still choose to flash a smile bringing with us the crown of joy to face our battles in life.”


59. “Zamboangueños Con Sus Sonrisas”
Gennel Jude N. Batacan (@batacangennel)
Nikon D3100 (ISO 560, 1/4000, f/4.5)
“More than the colors, the smiles brings the energy and brightens the festivity. Despite the waves of troubles, the Zamboangueños manage to flash their brightest smiles as a sign of resilience and hope that there’s always joy that comes in the morning.”

VOTERS' CHOICE AWARD: via Hermosa App

180. “Autentico”
Stephen Dale T. Dela Peña (@stephenddp)
Nikon (ISO 100, 1/6400, f/1.8)
“The photo depicts the genuine smile of a Zamboangueño despite of the difficulties. As the regatta embarks, it was evident how blissful the banqueros were and how genuinely they participated.”

FIFTH PLACE: (Courtesy of Zamboanga Homestyle Depot and KCC Mall de Zamboanga)

19. “Cura el Alegria”
Marlon Gonzalez (@marlongonzalez2015)
Nikon D5100 (ISO 160, 1/800, f/4)
“Fresh looks, full of joy and excitement as they are about to perform on the street not just to compete but to spread cure to sadness.”

FOURTH PLACE: (Courtesy of Zamboanga Homestyle Depot and KCC Mall de Zamboanga)

158. “Malami”
Faizal J. Salih (@faizalsalih17)
Nikon D5300 (ISO 400, f/4.5)
“Definitely mean despite of all the criticism in our place, Zamboanga still manage the equilibrium of issues and happiness. Our beloved place continue to give us a colorful and bizarre festival that stands out nationwide.”

THIRD PLACE:

42. “Bienvenidos de Mar”
Jose Mari Katipunan (@jmkatipunan)
Nikon D5300 (ISO 640, 1/4000, f/4.5)
“ “Welcome to the sea. It calls her people to seize the salty breeze and receive her gifts.” This photograph is dedicated to the indigenous fishermen who sail at nights, to feed our days.”

SECOND PLACE:

69. “An Incredible Display of Elegance & Suppleness”
Zyzrzyl M. Labayog (@zehzerzel)
Sony a6000 (ISO 100, 1/4000, f/1.8)
“Like a swan gliding in a sparkling lake, the festival queen exudes poise and grace.”

FIRST PLACE:

100. “Those Contagious Smiles”
Joe-An E. Denaque (@kish_anne06)
Fuji X-T20 (ISO 800, 1/1000, f/5.6)
“Their contagious smile makes everyone else smile back.”

Congratulations to all winners and participants of this year's competition! Special thanks to our partners, Zamboanga Home Style Depot and KCC Mall de Zamboanga for the additional prizes and for hosting the exhibit, and Hermosa App, our official app. To view all entries, visit the Facebook page Zamboanga Hermosa Festival 2019 here.
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