Bulok lahat sa tren, mula sistema hanggang bagon

Nakakainis.

Yung mga tao, dumidiskarte. Umiisip ng paraan para mapagaan ang sitwasyon mula sa bulok na sistemang pinapatupad sa mga tren. Pero lalo pa silang nagpapahirap.

Mahigit 2 buwan na ang nakalipas mula ng sabihin nilang magkakaroon ng bagong ticketing system. Konting pagbabago para sa transition ang magaganap.

Wala munang stored value sa mga LRT stations. Ibig sabihin nun, ang libo-libong pasahero ng LRT ay dapat pumila araw-araw para sa single journey ticket.

Sa palagay ko ay ayos lang naman yun. Isang buwan lang naman. Sabi kasi nila, July daw ipapatupad ang bagong sistema.

Nagkamali akong magtiwala sa gobyerno.

Kaya naman habang tumatagal ang pagpapatupad ng bagong sistema, ang iba, gumawa na ng paraan. Bumili ng maramihang single journey. Pang 2 araw, o kaya pang isang linggo.

Laking bawas nga naman sa oras yung pipila ka sa pagbili ng ticket bago pumila sa pagpasok mo sa tren (ibang oras din ang gugugulin mo sa pagpasok pa lang ng station).

Ngayong araw, walang abiso, hindi na pwedeng gamitin ang mga ticket na single journey. Coupon na raw ang gagamitin.

Nang itanong ko kung pwedeng papalitan na lang dahil bayad naman yun, ang sabi lang nila sa akin:

"Dapat hindi ka bumili ng madami. Expired na yan."

Buti sakin, 2 lang ang nabili kong extra. May nakita akong nagagalit na lalaki dahil pang 2 linggo ata ang binili niya. Hindi ko siya masisi.

Hindi ko maintindihan kung paano mageexpire ang ticket na hindi naman pinapasok sa makina at recycled lang mula sa ibang tren!

Maliban sa hindi pa rin napapatupad yung bagong ticketing system (na inuna nila kaysa sa mga bagong tren), e pabago-bago pa sila ng pagpapatupad sa pansamantagal nilang "transition".

Hindi ba sila nahihiya na yung mga tao pa ang umiisip ng paraan para mapagaan ang buhay tren nila?

Nakakadismaya. Sobra.

Different, but one

Holding you is like holding a part of me. Outside of me but not vulnerable. It possesses a certain strong character--something that depicts strong emotions.

Looking at your eyes, I see my own reflection. The feelings extracted through the windows of your soul seem to emit the same feelings I do have.

The feel, the touch, our skin colliding, it feels like founding yourself in the body of a different person.

Different, but one in heart.

Wasabi Warriors

Our Warrior Story

"Warrior (insert name here), here's your order!"

One fine lunch time, my friends thought of visiting the five Wasabi brothers--trained by their fathers to honor the ways of the earth, oceans, and animals.

We've searched far and wide, even taxis doesn't want to accompany us. It was far beyond our usual route, but the visit, I know, would be a remarkable experience.

Famous around the globe, the five brothers visited the Philippines to share the qualities their father has taught: to feel good, do good, and eat good.

Finally we've reached the destination. The place is big and cozy. Gladly, it isn't full.

We were welcomed by a great number of selection, from mixed to fried, from black rice, to brown, white.

Sushi Rolls!

I've met Warrior Ocean and Warrior Veggie, they are calm as the oceans could be, and sweet as seasoned mangoes. But add some Chili Mayo (their own secret recipe), and they will surely give you a nice spicy kick.

But it is definitely scrumptious than the usual Kikomann treat.

I've also met Warrior Porky--tasty but quick. With one or two bites of convo, he's out on the double. If you order an extra, you'll surely have wait.

Also, we've met their helper, Suzy the Sushi Robot. She can makes 100-150 sushi in one go!

Suzy the Sushi Robot

I liked all brothers that I've met. I'll be honest too, it is affordable and is worth it. Once I'm out, I'm really full!

But my friend said they weren't so authentic, Kasumi Miyahara (Her name is so credible, I just have to write it in full) said she wasn't satisfied.

Your Warrior Menu

Also, it is served in a plastic container, like those that you can grab and go.

It is the First and only in the country, but I've read that the brothers are looking for their lost sister, read the Warrior Story.

The Warrior Story

I also look forward in meeting her!

Warrior Tip:

Subscribe to their email and present the proof to get one FREE Sushi Roll!

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Wasabi Warriors PH

G/F Unit 05, The Gramercy Residences, Century City, Kalayaan Ave., cor. Salamanca st., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City

Never say goodbye

We exchanged glances as we leave the airport. No words. Only smiles. Pretentious smiles.

We know it's more painful for her than it is for us. But that's the point. Knowing that she feels bad is what makes me feel worst.

Only Rab would break the silence. Only his innocent mind would ask where is mommy. We did not tell the truth, that she's leaving for a long time again. Instead, we tried to make a funny story.

"She's just pooping!"

"She'll be back immediately."

That's the biggest lie we had that day.

But even his innocent mind knows the truth even if it's deprived from him.

"Mommy ko. I like mommy ko."

It could have been us saying those words. But we didn't. The silence is more deafening.

Upon riding the car back home, Rab's broken voice hints that he gives up.

"Ba-bye, Mommy."

While the four of us never said goodbye. Our lips have never dared say.

Uncertain

There was
But never whole
So there I go
Back in the hole

Is it me closing doors?
Or is it them letting me out?

Once again, I wasn't sure.

Sultan Mediterranean Grill

Want to grab some Middle Eastern taste? Sultan Mediterranean Grill seems like a perfect spot for it! We’ve spotted one in one of the hidden alleys of Makati. From the outside, you'll smell the aroma as if a Sultan is really inviting you to come and dine!

Sultan Mediterranean Grill Entrance (Photo from Facebook Page)

Aside from the delicious taste, meals are sure affordable! Me and my friends tried the Chicken Kebab Plate. The chicken is tender and juicy, though the rice served is not the middle eastern-type which is supposed to be long grained and not sticky.

Chicken Kebab Plate, P180

The yogurt sauce though is so perfect for the chicken kebab, we almost finished a whole bottle! For a spicy taste, they have a separate bottle for the sauce. Although, my friend who loves spicy food said that it wasn't so spicy even if she added chili flakes already. Not really sure if it’s her high tolerance of spicy food or the sauce just lacks some spicy kick.

The place is cozy and small, large group seem not advisable since you might end up seating on different tables. The staff are so busy attending to many customers too so you really have to be patient in waiting for the food to be served.

According to my friends, the restaurant had its renovations and improvements which is actually better since it looks more clean and classy.

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Sultan Mediterranean Grill is located at: UG9 Valero Plaza Condominium, 124 San Agustin, Makati City

Mendokoro Ramenba in Makati

Not really a fan of Ramen but it’s still great to at least try one. Recommended by a friend, we tried Mendokoro Ramenba in Makati, and I wasn’t disappointed!

Mendokoro Ramenba opens at 11:00am and serves until the 80^th bowl for lunch and 100^th bowl for dinner which starts at 6:00PM.

It can only accommodate a number of people at a time but Ramen lovers are very eager to wait until they can seat and be served.

Boat-shaped dining area. (Photo from Facebook Page)

I ordered Shio (my friend’s recommendation) which was served freshly cooked minutes after a seat was assigned to me. It has a very tasty and milky soup and firm noodles. It is best to sip the soup while it’s hot! The meat is also very tender. One serving is more than enough, I'm really full after eating.

Shio, P360

The place resembles authentic Ramen houses in Japan. Their staff are very courteous and attentive, they will ask for your number immediately and assign you to a seat once there’s available. They also constantly shout some Japanese words in Japanese tone—I guess it’s “Welcome!” and “Thank you for coming”, since I always hear it when someone comes in and is done eating.

If you’re in a group, expect that you will not eat together, it may be done in batch. You may request that you sit together if you’re in a group of 3 but you have to wait for 3 chairs to be vacant first. People are not allowed to eat that long since other people will also have to eat (We’re hungry too!).

For a first-time Ramen eater, this is definitely 5 stars for me! I haven’t tried their other meals but I bet they are good as well!

Tip:

Seat at the far end of the table so you could see how the staff prepares the food.

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Mendokoro Ramenba is located at: Ground Flr., V. Corporate Center, Soliman St., Salcedo Village, Makati City

Payo sa unang pag-ibig

Ang pag-ibig ay parang isang karagatan, hindi mo alam kung ano ang hatid nito: Akala mo’y payapa pero sa ilalim ay may nagngangalit na mga pating, o kaya nama’y maalon pero sumasabay lang pala sa himig ng isang awitin.

How do you unwrap a sealed love?
https://instagram.com/gazellemarcaida/

Haaay, unang pag-ibig! Masaya? Nakakakilig? Ganun talaga! Lahat ng unang beses, tatatak sa’yo. Lahat din ng una, pinaglalaanan ng panahon at pera na handa mong ibigay ng buong-buo. Tulad na lang ng baon mo sa iskul para makabili ng kahit na anong hilingin niya. Pag-iipunan mo bawat mapulang rosas at matamis na tsokolate. 

Naaalala mo pa ba nung oras na dapat ay tumutulong ka sa mga kaklase mo para sa isang proyekto sa iskul? Nagsakit-sakitan ka para lang makauwi kaagad at makasama siya dahil ayaw mong isipin niya na nawawalan ka na ng oras sa kanya.

Lahat ‘yun binibigay mo ng kusa at walang pag-aalinlangan. Kahit ano, kahit kailan, kahit saan. Para ka mang si Batman, lahat gagawin mo kasi mahalaga siya, kasi mahal mo siya.

Bawat Minutesary, Daysary, Monthsary, at Anniversary hindi mo pwedeng makalimutan. Lahat ng detalye ng unang lugar kung saan mo siya unang nakita, unang pagkakataon na hinawakan niya ang iyong kamay, unang “I love you”, unang pagkain na kinain n’yo sa pinakaunang restawran na kinainan n’yo sa unang araw na pumayag siyang lumabas kasama ka--lahat nakadetalye sa utak mo na parang isang mahabang listahan ng una. Siya ang una mong pag-ibig at para sa’yo, siya na rin ang huli.  

Pero kasabay ng unang pag-ibig na ‘yan, dumaloy din ang unang luha mo na hindi mo naman pinapakita dati sa akin. ‘Yung matatag at di matitibag na dating ikaw, parang kinakalawang na bakal na ngayon at ang daling magiba sa tuwing nagkakaproblema kayo.

Kasabay din nu’n ang pagbuhos ng sama ng loob mo dahil hirap na hirap ka na sa halos araw-araw na pag-aaway ninyo tungkol sa kahit na anong bagay. Pero kahit ganun, kinakaya mo pa rin. Minsan gusto mo nang sumuko, pero paggising mo kinabukasan, maaalala mong mahal mo siya at hindi mo siya kayang iwan.

Pero isang araw, nakaya niyang iwan ka.

Ngayon, wala na. Umalis na siya, kasi ayaw na daw niya, kasi hindi ka daw niya maramdaman. 'Tol, siya ‘yung manhid, hindi ikaw. Hindi mo kailangan sisihin ‘yung sarili mo.

Pride na ata ang bumusog sa’yo dahil kinain mo nang lahat ‘wag lang siyang mawala sa’yo.‘Tol, alam mo kung anong problema sa lahat-lahat ng binibigay mo? Wala nang natira sa’yo. 

Pero alam mo, ‘yan ang hirap sa’yo e, una pa lang sinabi ko nang magtira ka para sa sarili mo. Sabi ko ‘di ba, makinig ka sa akin, dumaan na ako d’yan! Pero kahit araw-araw tayong mag-usap tungkol d’yan sa pag-ibig mong hindi nawalan ng isyu, ni isang salita hindi tumimo sa utak mo. Hindi ka nakinig sa payo ko.

Ang hindi ko maintindihan, hinahabol-habol mo pa rin siya kahit lagi ka niyang ipinagkakaila sa harap ng mga kakilala niya. Nagpakababa ka na at lahat, humihingi ng tawad sa kasalanang hindi mo alam kung ano. ‘Yan ang hirap sa relasyon n’yo, hindi mo naman talaga alam kung kailan siya naging totoo sa’yo.

Masakit marinig ang katotohanan ‘di ba? Masakit makita kung ano ka talaga sa kanya. Sana ‘wag mong masamain yung sinasabi ko sayo, kasi kailangan mong matauhan. Sa tibay mong ‘yan, akalain mong sinabi mo sa akin na parang mamamatay ka na sa sakit? Akala mo lang ‘yun!

Alam mo bang mahigit pitong bilyon pa rin ang populasyon ng mundo, mahigit sa kalahati siguro ang nasaktan na sa pag-ibig pero buhay pa rin sila! Hindi nabawasan ang tao sa mundo dahil sa sawi sila sa pag-ibig, nakakapagtaka nga’t dumo-doble pa lalo. Masikip pa rin ang mundo, kaya oo, magkikita at magkikita pa rin kayo.

Hanggang kailan kayang unawain ng puso mo ang sitwasyon?

Tol, wala na. Tapos na. Uwian na. Balik ka na sa sarili mo. Hindi mo kailangan magpakalugmok sa sitwasyon mo. 

Karamihan sa mga tao dumadanas talaga ng pait ng unang pag-ibig. Kasi sa unang pag-ibig ka unang natututong bumangon, tumayo, matauhan, magising sa katotohanan, na ang relasyon nagiging habangbuhay lang kung parehas kayong magtutulungan. 

Pero may mga bagay lang talaga na hindi natin pwedeng ipilit dahil hindi talaga iyon ang nakatadhana. Sana bumalik ka na sa mas matatag na ikaw. Hindi naman sa kanya umiikot ang mundo, kaya hindi din sa kanya hihinto.

Tandaan mo, ‘tol, sa lahat ng sugat, ‘yan lang ang sugat na tuturuan kang maging mas matatag at malakas. ‘Pag naghilom ‘yan, matagal man, ‘yang pilat na ‘yan ang magpapaalala sa’yo na sa pinakamalungkot na panahon ng buhay mo, kinaya mo, at sa panibagong pagkakataon, handa ka na--handa ka nang magmahal, hindi lang ng iba kundi higit sa lahat, ng sarili mo.

Kapag nagmamahal ka, hindi mo dapat iniiwan ang sarili mo, dahil kung hindi mo mahal ang sarili mo, hindi ka tunay na nagmamahal. Hindi kasakiman ‘yun, dahil ang kakayahan mong magbigay ay nakadepende lang sa kung anong meron ka.

Siguro, parehas lang kayong nagmahal ng sobra. Ikaw, minahal siya, at siya minahal lang ang sarili niya.

Matapos kong sabihin sa’yo lahat ‘to, alam kong hindi ka makikinig. Ilalaban mo pa rin ang natitirang isang porsyento ng pag-asa sa puso mo. Hindi na kita pipigilan pero hindi rin ibig sabihin nito na sinusuportahan kita. Pero minsan kasi, talagang kulang ang salita sa pusong nagpupumilit. Hahayaan na lang kita, dahil ginusto mo ‘yan, pinili mo ‘yan.

Sana lang dumating ang panahon na kahit ano pa man ang mangyari, manalo o matalo ka man sa laban mo, bumalik ka sa dating pagkakakilala ko.

Unang pag-ibig lang ‘yan, hindi ‘yan ang katapusan.

***

Ang post na ito ay kalahok sa ispesyal na patimpalak ng Saranggola Blog Awards.

Biyaheng MRT

Nang makita kong nakahinto na naman ang escalator, alam kong nagsimula na naman ang araw-araw kong ehersisyo bago pumasok sa opisina.

Nang makita ko ang tila di mahulugang karayom na dami ng tao, alam kong nagsimula na naman ang libreng sauna ko bago pumasok sa opisina.

Nang makita ko ang halo-halong lalaki at babae sa platform, alam kong nagsisimula na naman ang training ko sa wrestling, kick-boxing, at judo, bago pumasok sa opisina.

Hindi naman ako nagpapayat o kaya’y nagpapalakas ng katawan, pero ito ang itinuturo sa akin ng araw-araw na sitwasyon ko sa MRT at LRT kung saan hindi lang ako ang nakararanas kundi pati na rin ng mahigit kalahating milyong pasahero nito sa araw-araw.

Sabi nga sa isang biro sa Facebook, papasok ka sa MRT o LRT bilang isang estudyante, ngunit lalabas ka rito na isang mandirigma. Nakakatawa man ang ganitong biro, parang gusto ko itong paniwalaan. Marahil, lahat tayo’y madirigma na patuloy na lumalaban sa simpleng pagsakay at pagbaba ng tren—sa tren ng kahirapan na patuloy lamang sa pag-andar, ibaba man tayo sa isang destinasyon ay hindi naman natutugunan ang tunay na problema ng bansa. Hindi ba’t nakakasawang paulit-ulit na marinig? Ngunit oo, kahirapan. Isang isyu na matagal nang sinusubukang resolbahin pero tila palala ito nang palala.

Saan nga ba patungo ang ating bansa?

Sa simpleng biyahe ni Nonoy patungong paaralan, kailangan niya munang bumaba ng matarik na bundok, o kaya’y tumawid sa malawak na dagat. Suot ang isang pares ng paa na may makapal nang kalyo, sinasalo nito ang lahat ng lubak at putik, handang lumusong sa lahat ng klase ng dagat, maging ang dagat ng basura.

Matapos ang ilang oras na pagba-biyahe para lamang sa pangarap na magandang kinabukasan sa tulong ng kaalaman, sasalubong sa kanya ang natutuklap na bubong ng eskwelahan, wala nang pintuan dahil tinangay ng nakaraang bagyo, at mga bintanang bungi-bungi.

Pasalamat na lamang sila at hindi umuulan dahil kung hindi, malamang ay nakababad na naman ang kanilang mga paa sa tubig, at kanya-kanyang salok ng tumutulong tubig-ulan gamit ang mga lata.

Kasama niya roon ang mga kaklase niyang dumaan din sa parehong kinasanayang araw-araw na pagsubok—swerte na siguro ang may isang pares ng tsinelas, kung mayroon ma’y butas naman ang sakong.

Papasok pa lang si Nonoy. Lahat ng ito’y haharapin niyang muli sa kanyang pag-uwi.

Saan nga ba patungo ang ating bansa?

Ayon sa pagsisiyasat ng DOH noong 2010, tatlumpung porsyento ng Pilipino ang namamatay ng hindi nakakakita ng doktor. Kaya’t hindi na siguro katakataka kung hindi na umabot ng buhay si Mang Gusting nang dalhin sa ospital makalipas ang halos apat na oras na biyahe mula sa kanilang isla patungo sa pinakamalapit na ospital ng bayan. Oo, dahil sa pulo-pulong porma ng Pilipinas, ilang mga bayan ang kinakailangan pang bumiyahe sa bangka ng ilang oras para lang makarating sa sentro.

Kung sakali mang umabot si Mang Gusting ng buhay, ito naman ang aabutan niya sa ospital: Kakulangan sa espesyalistang doktor. Wala ring kama na maaaring paghigaan kaya’t gagamitin ang lumang kama na may mantsa pa ng dugo mula sa ibang pasyente. Wala nang kwarto at siksikan na rin sa ward room, kaya’t sa pasilyo na lamang magpapalipas ng gabi.

Sa kahihintay ng pasyente, malamang, mauna pang malagot ang hininga nito bago pa masagot ang tanong ng nars na, “Ano po ang nararamdaman ninyo?”

Ano nga ba ang dapat mong maramdaman sa ganitong sitwasyon? Sabihing masakit ang dibdib mo’t naghihingalo ka na? O masakit ang dibdib mo dahil sa awa sa sarili, na sa mismong bayan mo, ni hindi ka man lang madugtungan ng buhay?

At ngayon, kabuwanan naman ng biyuda ni Mang Gusting na si Aling Tasya. Halos lahat ng kababaihan sa isla ay sanay magpaanak sa kanilang mga sarili. Isang blade na binabad sa alcohol ang kasangga, pikit-mata sabay mabilis na hiwa ang magpuputol sa nag-uugnay sa ina at sanggol ng halos siyam na buwan—sariling sikap.

Pikit-mata ring ipinagdarasal na nawa’y walang maging kumplikasyon at impeksyon na makuha ang ina at sanggol na tila ang parehong mga paa’y nasa hukay, na sana’y nasa ospital.

Saan nga ba patungo ang ating bansa?

Transportasyon ang isa sa pinakamahalagang paraan ng pagkokonekta ng mahigit sa pitong libong isla ng Pilipinas. Kailangan natin ng daanan na magkokonekta sa bawat islang ito sa kaunlaran.

Sa palagay ko, hindi lang tuwid na daan ang kailangan ng ating bayan—kailangan natin ng daan mismo. Paano mo itutuwid ang daan, kung wala namang daanan?

Sa totoo lang, hindi ko na maintindihan kung bakit kailangang maglakbay sa kabundukan, tumawid sa karagatan, at makipagsiksikan sa MRT para lang makamit ang pangarap na kasaganaan.

Hindi ko talaga maintindihan kung bakit napakahirap bumiyahe sa ating bansa.

Kung kahit sana’y sa simpleng pagbiyahe ay masabi natin na tayo ay maunlad. Dahil ang simpleng pagbiyahe na ito ang magkokonekta sa atin sa mundo. Ang simpleng maayos na transportasyon ang maglalapit sa mga kababayan natin hindi lang sa sentro ng bayan kundi pati na rin sa maayos na kinabukasan.

Sana pwedeng ipa-MRT ang buong Pilipinas. ‘Yan ang nasambit ng isip ko habang bumababa ng tren. Naisip ko kung paanong ang isang mala-ahas na tren na pagkahaba-haba ay maaaring magdugtong sa bawat isla.

Isipin mo ‘yun? Walang nang dibisyon.

Hindi lang para sa kasalukuyan kundi pati na rin sa susunod na henerasyon ang maayos na biyahe na ito. Kung maipapanganak ni Aling Tasya ng matiwasay ang sanggol na kanyang dinadala, at kung mas iigting pa ang pagpupursige ni Nonoy na makapagtapos ng pag-aaral, napakalaking kaluwagan sa kanila ang maayos na biyahe na tayong mga nasa kasalukuyan lamang ang maaaring makapagbigay sa kanila.

Napakalaking bagay ng transportasyon sa buhay ng bawat tao. Kung may destinasyon mang dapat babaan ang bansang Pilipinas, nawa’y sa istasyon ng matuwid na kinabukasan. Tulad ng araw-araw kong paghihintay sa tren na magbubukas para sa akin, magta-tiyaga rin akong maghintay sa tren na patungo sa daanang lahat tayo’y matagal nang inaasam-asam.

Pakiusap sa kasalukuyang henerasyon, sana’y walang iwanan. ‘Wag kayong sumakay sa skipping train at hayaan ang susunod na henerasyon na maiwan sa lugmok na sitwasyon.

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Ang sanaysay na ito ay opisyal na kalahok sa Saranggola Blog Awards 2014.

Le Coude Rouge

Craving for a French taste? Le Coude Rouge offers authentic French cuisine at a very affordable price!

It has a not-so-elegant ambiance, far from what I expected, and actually has a laid-back feel, which is really good. The table cloth looks good for picnics!

For those practicing the French language, you may converse with the waiter in such. But for those who are not, they are very flexible and will even teach you a few words.

Photo from Myra's Instagram Account

The food is good for sharing, since it's a little bit pricey, but me and my officemate ordered two meals, and it's worth it!

Coq Au Vin with mashed potato
(Chicken cooked in red wine, shallots, mushroom, and bacon) 

Our first meal is Coq Au Vin. The chicken meat is soft and tender. It is also very tasty. Myra thinks it's a native chicken. I actually have no idea because it tastes great!

Baguette Pizza with green salad and fries

For our additional meal, we had Baguette Pizza. I love the combination of the crunchy baguette and ham with other toppings (that I am not familiar with). The fries is a great compliment.

Au de Chocolat
(Chocolate Crepe)

For the dessert, the Chocolate Crepe is thin and is not too sweet. For not so sweet lovers, this may be good, for those who has a sweet tooth like mine, I craved for more.

Overall experience is fun and the food is really good, very French, I guess. 

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Le Coude Rouge is a cafeteria inside Alliance Francaise de Manille in Makati, near SM Jazz Residences.

Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 1)

Bohol is an awesome place! Despite that it was hit by one of the strongest earthquake, it was able to regain its natural beauty, and take pride for its capability to stand again.

Truly, the heart of Bol-anon is unshakable.

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Here is the complete itinerary of our four-day stay in Bohol!

We took an AirAsia flight to Tagbilaran City. The flight was delayed because of blah blah traffic, which we assumed was caused by the previous typhoon Glenda. Still, after a 1 hour and 15-minute travel, we are glad that we landed safe in Tagbilaran City.

Upon arrival at the Tagbilaran Airport!
Adventure starts here!

We are first time backpack travelers, so we are all excited to explore the province! And since we arrived at almost lunch time, we headed for our first restaurant destination.


Gerarda's Restaurant

We did our research about the famous restaurants in Tagbilaran, and Gerarda's Restaurant is featured in GMA News TV's 'Ang Pinaka' Yummy Restaurants in Bohol, that's why we tried it. The restaurant is just behind the community hospital.

How to get there from the airport?
Ride a tricycle, P20/pax.

It is an old house turned into a restaurant. We ordered Bouillabaisse and Dinakdakan, the restaurant's specialty! The food is good for sharing.

Bouillabaisse in a single serving
But it is served in a big bowl
P295

Dinakdakan
P180

Inside Gerarda's Restaurant! :)

After a sumptuous lunch, we headed to our next destination.


Sandugo Shrine

It is one of the most famous landmarks in Bohol, and also the reason for the festivity for this month in Bohol.

Sandugo is the first diplomatic agreement that existed in the Philippines.

On our way to the shrine, we encountered two foreigners, heading somewhere, we just took a picture with them and admire their bravery as they commute in a land where they are not familiar with, even with the language!

With the two foreigners, the man says, he does not
fit in the jeepney! Which is true.

How to get there?
Ride a tricycle going to Island City Mall (ICM), P10
Ride a jeepney to Loboc, tell the driver to drop you at the shrine, P8

Sandugo Shrine

Baclayon Church

From the Sandugo Shrine, we went to Baclayon Church. It is one of the churches that was hit by the earthquake.

How to get there?
Ride a jeepney to Loboc, tell the driver to drop you at the church, P8

Baclayon Church

There's a museum in Baclayon Church, and as part of our tour, we also went inside. The money will also help for the restoration of the church. Camera isn't allowed inside the museum, but it is allowed inside the church. The entrance at the museum costs P50.

Inside Baclayon Church

Then off we go to Loboc, where we plan to stay for the night.



After the jeepney ride, we were surpised to see the Loboc Church. It was really destroyed by the earthquake. Loboc Church is where the famous Loboc Choir stays. They are group of kids with amazing voices.

Loboc Church

We then dropped by at the reservation area for the Loboc River cruise to reserve a slot for dinner. But upon arrival, we were informed that the dinner cruise was canceled since the earthquake.

Since it's too late already, we headed to the guesthouse, so we can rest and enjoy the rest of the night.

There are two guesthouses near the cruise, the Paddle's Up Guesthouse and the Nipa Hut Guesthouse. The Paddle's Up is nearer, and has wifi, so we chose the place. Inside it is a simple yet majestic, close to nature, amazing place!

We rode a habal-habal (single motorcycle), P30/head/ride.


Paddle's Up Guesthouse

Perfect for backpackers, it has 3 kubos. One is a dormitory-like, you pay for the space that you will use. If you are comfortable sleeping with other backpackers, this is a perfect spot.

The other 2 kubos are good for two.

Paddle's Up Guesthouse

The comfort room, shower room, and dressing room is for sharing. But since it's off-peak season, it seems like we own the entire place!

The shower room

And what we like the most is the shower room and comfort room. Yes, as you can see in the photo, there's no roof. It's like taking bath at a natural spring in the middle of the forest!

The water is cold and refreshing.

The comfort room has the same style, but it has a roof. It has a lot of plants inside, very spacious.

No worries, no peeping toms here, I guess? As far as our experience is concern.

The price of the accommodation varies, but they accept walk-ins. The caretakers, Kuya Rico, Kuya Roy, and ate Hilda are very accommodating.

For our dinner, the guesthouse offers a variety of meals from P150 up. The meal is so yummy and worth the price!

Our first day ended with a good and peaceful sleep!

For our stay in Paddle's Up Guesthouse, we were able to bargain with Kuya Rico. In total, we only paid P1000 each, with two meals (dinner and breakfast) + tip!

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Photo Courtesy: MagbooManahanMarcaida

Related blogs:

Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 2)
Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 3&4)

Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 2)

We had a peaceful sleep at Paddle's Up Guesthouse, our first guesthouse location in Bohol. We have a lot of places to go to for today's itinerary so we geared up early.

For our breakfast, we chose to eat at this place before leaving.

Pinoy Breakfast at Paddle's Up Guesthouse, P150

As we are planning on how to get to our destinations, Kuya Rico, one of the caretakers in the guesthouse offered their car for rent as we go around the province. It was a good offer since travelling through public transportation is not common in the area, which might take too much of our time.

We rented the guesthouse's car for P600 for three locations---Tarsier Conservation Center-Sevilla Hanging Bridge-Loboc Cruise. Not bad!

Thanks for the ride, Kuya Rico!

Tarsier Conservation Center

Of course. when in Bohol, you should never miss seeing the smallest primate in the world. They are nocturnal creatures. It is actually saddening that the tour is for 8am-5pm, the time which they are supposed to be sleeping.

They are very delicate creatures, if they're depressed, they're prone to suicide. They'll kill themselves by banging their heads until they die. Cameras with flash are not allowed too, it will hurt their eyes which leads to killing themselves too.

Silence Please! :)

Visitors are not allowed to create loud noises so as not to disturb the sleeping creatures. Though, there would be times that they will be bothered and will wake up.

Tarsier

We tried not to bother them, but some of them are sensitive, even with the slight sound of the camera.

Us with the tarsier... uhm, somewhere, over there!

The tarsiers can be easily spotted. A roof made of big, dried leaf is the clue. We've spotted 3 of them for the entire trail.

The entrance fee in Tarsier Conservation Center is P60.

After the tour, we had a short buko break! Refreshing!

Be Natural!

Sevilla Hanging Bridge

Next stop is this very uncommon tourist spot in Bohol. The Sevilla Hanging Bridge. It is a fun tourist attraction since the bridge is really scary, for me!

It is originally made from bamboo and ropes, but to add stability, it is now improved with steel cables.

There are two bridges where you can walk as you go to the other side then going back. Entrance Fee is P10.

Sevilla hanging bridge (Elaine, Jaymee, Gazelle)

It was a short, scary, yet fun experience! At the other side of the bridge is buko king. We didn't get to see him perform since we already had our buko break at the conservation center.

On our way to the next destination, Kuya Rico allowed us to ride on top load!

On top!

Loboc River Cruise

Since we were not able to have our dinner cruise last night, we chose to go today. The cruise opens at 11am to 4pm. There are different boats that serve the tourists every hour. The line wasn't that long when we get there. The cruise is worth P450 for each person, inclusive of the cruise and lunch buffet.

The cruise is a unique experience. We are serenaded with local and old english songs as we eat and traverse the Loboc River. It is so peaceful, and the food are delectable!

Lunch Buffet!

A variety of veggies and seafoods

Our serenader :)

The cruise ends at the Busay Falls. It signals the u-turn. On our way back, we will be serenaded by another group of locals, through folk song and dance, on a floating restaurant. The performers were kids and oldies. It's nice how the kids are familiar with their local songs and dance, what a good way to pass on the culture to the new generation!

Busay Falls

Elaine with the Bol-anon women

Jaymee with the cute Bol-anon kids

Chocolate Hills

No one could miss dropping by at the famous Chocolate Hills when in Bohol! After leaving the guesthouse, we're back to travelling on our own.

We waited for a bus that will bring us to the Chocolate Hills. After a few minutes, one bus came, it's loaded with passengers but we still went in. From Loboc to Carmen, it is worth P25.

I find it fun to ride the bus, I get to connect with the locals, observe the things they do, and appreciate the view more.

The driver then told us to go and ride another habal-habal (single motorcycle) on our way to Chocolate Hills. For two rides (back and forth), we paid P40.

With the famous Chocolate Hills!

It is such an amazing sight after a long trail! It is worth it! The efforts and all! It is amazing how God was able to think of such wonderful and natural work of art! It looks like a painting, but it's real! It is such an awesome experience!

It's getting dark and foggy already because of the rain, so headed back to where the bus dropped us. We are going to get another bus ride back to Tagbilaran City. We are planning to buy some supplies then spend the night at Panglao Island.

How to get there:
Special tricycle ride from ICM to Panglao Island: P600
Jeepney from ICM to Panglao Island: P40 

(There are limited jeepneys to Panglao Island, we were not able to catch the last trip because we bought some supplies for our remaining stay in the island. Some of the food there might be too expensive!)

Dumaluan Beach Resort

It was night time when we reached Panglao Island. We checked in at Dumaluan Beach Resort. We chose a tree house that's good for 4 persons for 1,000/night. It has no air condition, but the place is really cold so it's actually more than okay! It is also super duper near the beach!

For charging of cellphones, there's a lobby in front that charges P20/gadget/full charge.

We had our dinner at the Dumaluan Beach Resort 1 Restaurant. It was expensive to eat there, but since we're hungry, we were not able to find a cheaper restaurant.

It was an activity-filled day! Excited to explore the Bohol province more!

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Photo Courtesy: MagbooManahanMarcaida

Related blogs:

Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 1)
Bohol Trip 2014 (Day 3&4)