A week before our trip, Metro Manila was flooded because of typhoon Ondoy. Never have I seen so much water in the streets in my twenty-ish years of existence. It was really sad that a lot of people were put in danger, their houses and properties destroyed. But despite all this, I have seen a hope for our country—a people power of a different kind manifested itself.  Ordinary people suddenly became heroes, risking life and limb for complete strangers.  It’s nice to know that even if natural disasters can’t be avoided, you can always count on the spirit of bayanihan to help you get through the storm.

That week came to pass, and yet another storm was brewing… I’d fear that the country hasn’t recovered yet and here we had another typhoon coming. I was worried too that our trip to Coron would be cancelled. Darn it.  I waited a long time for this trip since we booked our flight way back March –thanks to the Cebu Pacific Promo!  I was happy to know that Ondoy is leaving the country, but alas, that happiness didn’t last long since a new typhoon was coming! Pepeng or Parma which is expected to be worse than Ondoy will be in Manila on the day of our flight. That really sucks. Luckily (not entirely) it switched into a different direction. Thus it did not hit Manila. So, we still took the flight.

I was relieved when we arrived in Busuanga, it was like summer! So sunny,  we experienced slight showers but generally the weather was perfect  for a vacation. We arranged a van to get us to Coron (Php 150.00 per pax). It took around 45 minutes to 1hour travel time from the airport to our destination.

Things to do in Coron

Actually, we haven’t set any plans on what to do when we got there. We asked our van driver on where we should go, and we just went to the places he mentioned.

Go Hiking at Mt. Tapyas

I am not sure about the history of the name of the mountain because I don’t have any reliable sources, but judging from its slight cut at the top I would assume it’s why they called it “tapyas(cut or chip)..” It’s  700 steps from the foot of the mountain up to the peak.

You would see the entirety of Coron at the top. I was slightly worried about my prior knee injury but, urgh, whatever! I’m decided to climb this hill! Haha! The effort was very well worth it!

It’s was so nice to see everything from that height. It was an astounding view of the scenery plus the scent of fresh green grass, oh it was so blissful!

Relax at Maniquit Hot Spring

After hiking, we went to the Maniquit Hot Spring (30 to 45 minutes travel time from the town proper) to relax our weary feet. Going down the steps was quite difficult for me. My knees were really shaking. Entrance fee cost us around Php 100.00. They gave discounts to students and senior citizens. It was really hot! I have been to hot springs, but with this one, you have to slowly adapt with the heat. They said that the water came from a volcano, so that may help explains the ultra hot temperature and the sulfuric smell. It was relaxing but I noticed that hot waters kind of affected our breathing. And I felt tired afterwards. After being immersed for 20 minutes, I laid my back on the edge. It felt so good!

What else?! Island Hopping!!!!

I was really really excited with this one! The guest house owner, Patrik has a boat for rent and I think he’s got the cheapest rates in town.

We went to Siete Pecados (fee: 100.00 each) for snorkeling. My bf and I tried to get near in one of the islands but when we got there, I got scared cause there might be a sea snake so we went back right away. Haha! There were lots of fish there! We took some slices of loaf bread  so that the fish will come nearer from where we were. It was really fun and I enjoyed a lot cause a lot of cute fishes came around me and just a few moments later, bigger fish (about the size of tilapia) was already swarming all over! I really got scared and went to the boat as fast as I can! Whew!

We went to the Blue Lagoon. I said to myself, “God has wonderfully created these islands!” Lime stones were beautifully hewn and the plants accessorized it plus the clear blue waters made it even more beautiful! I was stricken with awe.

Sorry for the digression. This is where you get dropped off to hike going to the Kayangan Lake ( fee: 200.00 each). There was a short briefing that explained some tribal ritual and beliefs of the Tagbanua tribe (early dwellers of Palawan). It is here that we were told of the four lakes in the Calamian group of islands. One lake was believed to have a barracuda and only professional divers were allowed there. The biggest lake  was believed to have a giant octopus living in it! And they would only allow divers to explore the lake only if they were given the blessing of the Tagbanuas.

We also went to Twin Lagoon ( fee: 100.00 each) where in you can only pass by swimming. since the tide is high, we have to swim underwater to get to the lagoon. We decided not to go because some of us can’t swim without vest.

One of the best beaches I have been to is the Banol Beach( fee: 100.00 each). The water was so clear and the sand was really fine. Plus I found the place to be quite safe cos I didn’t feel strong currents that pull you away from the shore.

Hike to Concepcion Falls

Yes, we really did a lot of island hopping and it’s really really tiring but really worth it. We were supposed to go to Banana Island but the tide is high so we decided to go somewhere else. We decided to explore around the area. the van driver Kuya Raffy, advised us to go to Concepcion falls. we hired the van for Php 2500.00. travel time is around 2 hours of rough drive.

It wasn’t a really big kind of falls and it’s not even famous among Coron travelers.  It was quaint, but I really found it really beautiful. The water was cold and clear, it relaxed our muscles. After swimming, we stopped at a view deck to have a few shots taken and, of course, soak up more the beauty of Coron. Definitely, one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to.

Food and Pasalubong

Coron town is very friendly for tourists, especially the prices of necessities. Food is relatively cheap compared to other tourist destinations. You can have a meal for as low as  Php 50.00. Mang Joe’s Tapa is the best. It’s just at the corner of the town proper.

Palawan is known for

• Cashew Nuts
• Seafoods
• Yummy seaweeds

Must Haves

There were lots of mosquitoes, so it would be a good idea to bring lots of insect-repellant lotion. You should also bring umbrella (during this season)  As in the duration of our stay, we had at least 2 showers a day.

Where to stay

I’d  like to take this oppurtinity to  thank Timi for referring us to Patrik’s Guesthouse. Thank You Timi!

Try staying at Patrik’s guesthouse. It’s really reasonably priced but cozy and clean. it’s not air conditioned but it’s really cold during the night because the house is by the bay.  For more informantion visit http://swewa.net/

For van rental  contact Kuya Raffy(09085661749).  He’s very nice and he’s rate is a bit cheaper than the usual rates there.

How long has it been since I last time posted? Well I am really sorry for the overlong hiatus. I was so busy at work and short weekend trips that’s why I don’t get the chance to update lakwatsera that much.

Just this last Independence day me and bf decided to go on a picnic. We found something on the net that says Buruwisan Falls is 15-20mins trek. Oh it was a serious joke. We went to Siniloan and bought our packed lunch on a picnic bag, everything was perfect. Just until we arrived and realized that we are going to climb a mountain. We were shocked but since we were already there, we decided to go.

A mountaineer couple kindly agreed to accompany us on our hike since it’s our first time and its very likely that we might get lost inside the forest. So while walking we were talking about the place and they have told us that it will likely take us 2 hours to get to the falls. And the best of it was we are actually climbing.  I am seriously in trouble! I lack exercise and just recovered from the miniscal tear. We are just starting the hike when I started to get exhausted. I felt like I was going to collapse so we took a break and since we don’t want to bother the couple we told them to go on without us and we’ll be having a rest. I was on the midst of giving up when a man with a horse (he was supposed to harvest coconuts) came and we asked if I could ride in it. So we made a deal. For 200pesos one way he accompanied us on our destination. Oh thank God! The deal was actually cheap it was a very hard course for me. Good thing my bf was a CAT officer back in highschool and he is so used to such physical challenges.

We passed through 2 mountains and four nipa hut stop overs. Even riding a horse was not really comfy it was like I am riding a mechanical bull. plus, I could actually feel the horse sweating and that made me feel sorry for the her.  Whew! Finally, kuya freddy the horse owner said that we have arrived so we got our stuff and find a place to picnic. While checking out the perimeter we found no falls it’s just a plain river. Oh dear. So we tried to find the way to get to the falls. And there it was, we found it. It was a very narrow kinda like a stairway of roots and rocks. So again another climb, but this time it was more difficult. We felt like Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider going on adventure.

Alas we found the falls. It was so beautiful, and so relaxing. The sound of the water falling down was music to my ears. We felt a bit relieved, looked for a place to put our stuff, took a rest and ate lunch (Tuna Pesto! Yum yum!).

And enjoyed the relaxing view and dipped in the ice cold water. Thing is when you actually dip in a cold water it relaxes your muscles. It was like a spa after all the hard work. Yay!

We were able to talk to the campers there and they said that there are more adjacent falls to it. Around four. (A reason to go back and this time all set for camping!)  we were so tired that we didn’t dare to go the other falls. We promised ourselves we are going back to this place.

How to go to Buruwisan Falls

There are actually two routes that I learned.

The one we took was the one that passes to  Antipolo. We rode a bus at Raymond Transit Going to Famy. The other route is you have to ride a bus going to Sta.Cruz Laguna. From Sta.Cruz, you’ll ride a jeep going to Siniloan then go to Famy.
From Famy, you will ride a tricycle and say you are going to Buruwisan Falls, they will drop you to the start of trek. Around 15-20mins walk until you arrived at the registration area and you have to pay around 20.00. Good thing about the registration is that in case you got lost or whatever, they can track you.

Tips and tricks

It’s a camping trip so you have to travel light as much as possible.

Bring Food. There is a store there but I don’t think you’ll find everything you need in there. They sell more alcohol that water.

If you are not so particular with drinking water just bring chlorine tablets. It’s a big hassle to actually bring loads of stuff. But you can always hire a horse to carry your luggage.

Lakwatsera’s Budget

Bus fare 2ways (Raymond Transit)- 400.00
Tricycle – 20.00 – 40.00
Registration fee – 20.00
Horseback ride (2ways) – 400.00

When we hear Pagsanjan, you would likely be reminded of the Pagsanjan Falls. But do you know that aside from the typical boat ride, you can access the beautiful falls by land? August of last year, we had a very tiring but equally memorable Pagsanjan adventure. Thanks to my friend Miss Gemma Sajise for giving us pointers and our itinerary.

Factual Tidbits:

Pagsanjan Falls is not exactly located at Pagsanjan but in Cavinti.

It’s indigenous name is Magdapio Falls which is named after a legend of two brothers that asked the gods for water.

Magnifico, the internationally acclaimed movie (a movie that made me cry, apart from The Lion King) was shot in this town.

Magdapio Falls has a staggering height of 90meters.

Lakwatsera’s Tip:

Put your stuff in a waterproof backpack.
Waterproof your phones, cameras, clothes, and everything that shouldn’t get wet.
Be prepared to get wet!
I recommend slippers or hiking shoes. There are muddy surfaces and you are definitely going to get wet.

Bring water and eat breakfast.

Suggested itinerary (from Miss Gemma)
ITINERARY
0500 Take bus to Sta. Cruz
0730 ETA Sta. Cruz, take jeep to Cavinti
0830 At Cavinti, take tricycle to Cavinti Eco Park, Brgy. Tibatib
0900 ETA Eco Park, register
0930 Start trek to Nakulo Falls and viewdecks
1000 Proceed to steel ladder rappel
1030 ETA Madgapio Falls; proceed to raft through falls
1130 Proceed to Pagsanjan by boat
1215 ETA Pagsanjan / Lunch
1330 Head back to bus terminal in Sta. Cruz
1430 ETD Green Star bus for Buendia or HM Transport for Cubao
1500 Back in Manila

We met at around 6:00 in the morning in Cubao to get a bus ride going to Sta. Cruz, Laguna. It was a 2-hour travel from that point. Upon arriving at the last station, we took a jeepney going to Cavinti. What I liked most about Laguna are the people. They are very polite and kind. I can’t help but notice it. They’ll always smile at you and offer you directions very kindly.

Upon arriving at Cavinti, we had a short walk (the jeepney driver said to save money we can just walk because it’s not too far) around 5kms with around 25-degree slope. Haha. You would want to ride a tricycle if you’re not used to walking.

Finally, we arrived at the Cavinti Eco Park. We paid Php500.00 each which includes a one way- rappel going to the falls, then a balsa ride to the falls then boat ride going home. They have different charges for the local and foreign tourists, and a Cavintinian enjoys a much lower price. A boat ride back and forth costs Php800.00 each but was quite worth it. The boat was maneuvered manually by the bankeros.

The hike was a blast! Despite the fact that it was very tiring, it was still very much enjoyable. From the hike trail, you’ll be going up the mountain, then from there, you can see the Nakulo Falls (named from the word “kulo”  which means boil. It‘s not boiling hot but it looks like it‘s boiling big time). Plus the view, OMG, again I was embraced by nature with the animals freely moving around (don’t worry they won’t harm you).  Then, when you are ready, you’ll go down by ladder rappel. It’s very safe so you don’t have to worry.  You’ll be rappeling twice then go down on a 75-degree slope ladder (just an estimate)  and it has 672 steel ladder steps, it’s kind of a long way down!

After going down, whew! Your  efforts are very well paid off. The Magdapio Falls is very beautiful. My fatigue vanished the moment I saw the falls. We had a balsa ride that is pulled going inside the falls. there is a mini cave inside where you can swim.   I just want to say again, that the people there are very kind and trustworthy. They even held the gadgets and money of the tourists while they explored a bit. Plus all of them were slash photographers. They could operate any kind of cameras that the tourists brought! Haha! Of all the places that I’ve been too, I could say that I love the Pagsanjeños the most.

We were asked to lay our stomach at the balsa while passing through the falls, it was an instant massage, it stinged a bit but it was relaxing.

We went back by the traditional banca ride to complete our Pagsanjan experience. The rapids is very quiet, surrounded by mountains and some mini falls.

The funny thing is that when we got to the drop off point, there was no water at the bathrooms so we bathed at the river! Haha.. While some were doing their laundry, we were there washing ourselves. Haha! And a horse was bathing around too! Good thing we were farther upstream from where the horse was! Hahaha!

Our lunch was recommended by the tricycle driver. It was at a restaurant that served the authentic Laguna Binalot meal.

Overall, it was very good way to spend a weekend and a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of life in the metro..

Probably the most influential culture in the Philippines is the Spanish. They have stayed here in the Philippines for more than 300 years and our country was even named after King Philip II of Spain. It was a mixture of beauty and pain for the hardships that was experienced by our ancestors that I remember when I saw the town of Vigan.  I was warped back through time the moment I stepped at Calle Crisologo, the most preserved area in the town.  I saw everything in Sepia.

Vigan, the Capital of Ilocos Sur is around 8-12 hours drive from Manila. It was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since it has the most Hispanic towns here in the Philippines. It’s cobblestone finish and the fusion of Philippine and Spanish and European architecture plus the preserved religious and civic relics are some of what makes the beauty of Vigan.

Vigan – A Testimony of True Love

Do you sometimes imagine that you were a girl from the 18th century, so refined and pure, and then a guy who likes you writes you a letter, then visits you at home and then you talk, you laugh covering your mouth…then the love so true will be separated by something like war and social status and then you wait in vain… Haha…Well, you don’t have to imagine these clichés because I’m gonna share to you these true love stories:

The first Filipino heroine was from Ilocos Sur. Gabriela Silang is a mestiza (has Spanish blood) that was married to an Ilocano governor, Diego Silang but was later assassinated because of his pursuits to fight for freedom. Which made Gabriela lead what her husband has started. She fought for LOVE and freedom.

Weren’t you surprised that Vigan has survived the Japanese Occupation during World War II? Before the Japanese’ withdrawal in the Philippines, they were tasked to destroy the zones they used. The night before they left, they have strategically placed numerous tanks of gasoline and bombs. Apparently, a Japanese military officer had an affair with an Ilocano woman and bore a child. We all know that Japanese have abused women but these military officer chose to take care his wife and child in secret. He asked the procurator of Vigan seminary that time to take care of his family. The procurator agreed but asked something in return. He asked the officer to leave the town without burning it. Reason is, the townspeople will seek revenge on his family. Thus, the Japanese retrieved and leaving no marks of destruction.

Some other Fun Facts

Vigan was named by Juan de Salcedo, a Spanish explorer after a plant that is abundant in the area. The plant was called by the Ilocanos biga-a.

Father Jose Burgos, one of the GOMBURZA or the Martyr Priests of Cavite was born in Vigan. Together with Father Gomez and Father Zamorra, there were falsely accused of sedition and garroted at Bagumbayan.

President Elpidio Quirino, the sixth president of the Philippines is also a native of Vigan,.

Ilocos was one of the provinces that first resistend Spanish colonization.

What to see in Vigan:

Chavit’s Baluarte – Chavit Singson’s Zoo that is open for everybody! Too bad the lion was living on a cage with the tigers.
Check out his site :   http://www.chavitsingson.net/baluarte/

Pagburnayan- where you can see the actuall process of making Burnay Jar an export-quality product of locos.

Plaza Burgos – A landmark tribute to the Vigan martyr priest, Father Jose P. Burgos.  Festivals usually took place in the Plaza and where you can eat the sumptous Vigan Empanada.

Calle Crisologo and the rest of the mestizo district – offers a wonderful glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial past. The ancestral houses were mostly built by Chinese traders using a mixture of local, Asian and Spanish architectural styles. My personal favorite

Syquia Mansion – Houses the memorabilia of Pres. Elpidio Quirino

St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral – Built by Augustinians around 1790 and features a unique design intended to minimize earthquake damage; a style that came to be known as "earthquake baroque". Look out for the brass communion handrails forged in China. The eight-sided bell tower is just south of the cathedral.

Plaza Salcedo west of the cathedral features a 17th Century monument to Juan de Salcedo, and was also the site where Gabriela Silang was hanged to death.

The Ayala Museum – was the home of Father Jose Burgos now showcases Ilocano artifacts, weapons, kitchen utensils, basketry, costumes, jewelry and some relics of the Burgos family. Beside the museum is the Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail, also the site where the Philippines first Ilocano president, the late Pres. Elpidio Quirino, was born.

Gastronomic Delights:

Vigan longganisa (pork sausage),  famous for its strong garlic taste.
Bagnet (air-dried, deep-fried pork),  if you have tasted Lechon de Leche, Bagnet is way better. It’s crunchy feeling and flavor makes it so yummy especially when dipped in vinegar.
Royal Bibingka – made of cassava unlike the usual rice cake.

Vigan Empanadas – an equivalent of the Mexican Taco only that Empanadas are deep-friend and has an egg. The meat inside was the famous and very yummy Vigan Longganisa
Chichacorn
Basi – Sugarcane based wine
Pinakbet – a famous Ilocano vegetable dish served with either fish or meat in Bagoong.

I can tell you. I have tasted all of it and you’re gonna love everything! Now that I am writing it, I felt a sudden craving of those foods.

Though I’m not much of an alcohol fan but the Basi tastes good.

Tips and Tricks:

To cook Vigan Longganisa, you have to cook it first in water, wait until it dries then place a little oil.

Tour the place in a horse-drawn carriage or Kalesa (500.00Php each Kalesa and can carry 3-4 persons it will tour you around the different places of interest in Vigan)

Ask for discounts! Ilocanos are well known for being thrifty so it’s ok if you adapt that culture. Hehe.

Be friendly and courteous. Ilocanos are very friendly and very easy to talk with. Smile is the key

I am an Ilocana myself (but from Pangasinan) so I’m gonna give you a few Ilocano greetings:
Good day to all of you- “Naimbag nga aldaw yo amin”
Good evening – “Naimbag nga rabii”
Thank you – “Agyaman ak”

an elder woman is called Manang and Manong if elder guy.

a younger person is affectionately called Adeng.

I personally feel attached to Vigan because of it’s antiquity, and history. My love for vintage items makes me love it more!

Lakwatsera Vigan Facts:

My parents partially named me after Gabriela Silang (Carla Gabriela) and I am a big fan of her.
I share the same birthday with the late Pres. Elpidio Quirino.

I ‘ve been going to different places ever since I was a month old. My parents love the beach and seeing places which I think influenced me.  So after a lot of trips I have been through I have learned the art of traveling light. Especially when commuting or in a jam-packed car situation.

Being away from home, of course we would always want the comfort of having everything you need. So I got a few tips for you.

• Always bring your camera with you. There’s no souvenir could ever compare to the memories captured. Priceless.
• Don’t be shy to ask for help. Or sometimes it’s not the shyness factor that makes us hesitate. Of course we have to value our safety. Well, if that’s the case, ask the guards, police or barangay officer.
• Be courteous to the people you meet on your trip.  If there comes a time that you might actually need their help, they would happily assist you. Or if buying pasalubongs, sometimes smiling does the trick to avail discounts. Beam and you will remember how enjoyable your trip would be.
• Keep your valuables where you can see them.
• Bring cash unless you are sure that those cards can help you survive the rural. Better yet if possible check if they are serviceable.
• Pack your bag at least 2 days before you travel. to have enough time to check if you forgot something. better yet create a list of what to bring.
• If camping, clean your camp area before you leave.

Backpacking Tips and What to Bring

• Separate Dry or After Bath  hygiene products from the ones which will likely get wet.



• Put your shampoo, conditioner liquid soap etc, in small containers.  Can be bought at leading Skin Care Stores or if you have containers from hotels, you can use them.  As much as possible, let’s minimize using sachets because it’s one of causes of clogged drainage.
• First Aid. Alright. I think this is the most taken for granted item.  Most of us doesn’t care if they have first aid and most of them are guys. Just pack a few cotton balls and Iodine solution, some paracetamol etc.,  This common ailments could be the most annoying show-stopper ever.
• A very small sewing kit. It’s not like you can buy clothes right away in case you got your clothes got damaged right?
• Your Bath bag should dry up fast. We don’t want to bring wet items.
• Bring a reusable bag with you. Help minimize the use of plastic bags by bringing your bag to hold your pasalubongs. This could also be used to separate your used clothes from the clean ones.



• I am very much thematic and I always love to accessorize! Bringing accessories would seem very impractical haha but we could always squeeze a little space for our necessity(haha is it not?). Try buying a small medicine organizers that can hold at least 3 pairs of earrings, necklace, etc.,
• The must haves.  Shades, a hat or umbrella,  a fan (during summer),  sun block, something to cover toilet seats like the one I love to buy at Watsons (Plush Toilet seat cover Php22.00 /5pcs),  Alcohol or Hand Sanitizer and a flashlight.
• Organize your things according to frequency of use. What I usually do is that I bring with me a handy bag that holds everything that I use a lot. Then I got another bag which holds my clothes, bath kit, First Aid, sewing kit, etc.,
• Separate food from clothes. (for obvious reasons).

Bring the stuffs that you need plus a little something extra (in a very small amout) would help you to have a worry-free trip.