Happy Valentine’s Day! Another hearts’ day has come, let us enjoy the light breeze of love this month. Also, try to find humor from bitter relationships you had ‘coz laugther is still the very best medicine, especially for the hearts barely beating. Spread love and enjoy reading my piece. Ciao Ciao!
I just wanted to share this composition of mine. It was extracted from Spiky’s recent personal experiences. This goes for the broken-hearted who have dissected what they went through and be able to change the course of their lives. Advance Happy Valentine’s Day. Enjoy.
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(Albay Bikol version)
Ano pa an muya mo tabi sako?
Nagkakurua mo na gabos.
Itinigaya ko na an sakuyang puso.
Nata muya mo pa pabalintukon?
Mapagal man baga an hiru-hiro na arog kaan.
◊
Magrayu ka daw tabi sako.
Pinasabot mo na sa ngimot ko
Dai magliwuy sa duwang-dupa mong lanop
Nata sa hutok ko igpabalik-balikan mo an?
Matanglay man baga ang magnganga sa isip
◊
Ata baya, pumundo ka ta baratak na
Kalag ko nagparalakaw na sa bilog nin Albay
Nakaabot na lamang sa Antipolo
Nata sige ka pang sulsog sa tikab?
Makauyam man baga magpainit sa lipot gilayon.
◊
Kan kuminadyot baga an asu mo parayu
Halaba kong yosi naging upos
Dai lugod ako makapilsi kan tada na tabako
Nata lugod naging arog kaan?
Makatuok man baga magparahit-hit sa parus.
◊
Pago lamang ta pinabulbol kan kairibahan mo
Pinabuaya sa tahaw, sa gilid, sa taas, sa baba
Suminalbod lugod an libog na nagpaparautik
Nata muya mo pang pataralibungon?
Makasawa man baga an magparatana sa kama
◊
Uminagi na lamang an ribok kan sikad-sikad
Natapos na an kanta kan mga buyong
Naraot na lamang pilditan kan ligther
Nata sa laog, nagparasiyak giraray?
Makabungog man baga paruton mong kanta
◊
Posible daw magkabalikan dawa lapa an pahamot?
Dai ko aram ta ngunyan na sarung banngi
An hamot kan pagmati ay diitun na
Nata?
Makaurag man baga pagsaru sana nagpaparahiro sa kutsyon.
◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
(English version)
What else do you want from me?
You had it all
I turned my heart upside down
But why do you still have to bend it over?
It’s wearisome to assume that position
◊
Please get lost
You have my mouth understand
Not to drool over your thick wall
But why want me to salivate it repeatedly?
It’s tiring waiting with a mouth wide open
◊
Whoah, please stop, it’s cracking already
My soul had roamed around the whole Albay
And it had reached Antipolo
Why move back and forth though a chest?
It’s bothering to yield warmth in a cold space again.
◊
When your smoke moved further away
My long cigar turned to ashes
Now, I can’t even press the remnants of tobacco
Why does that memory fade away?
It’s also suffocating to puff through its air
◊
Damn, your friend make it entangled
Deteriorated in the middle, to the sides, on top, and below
It then traversed with a fake urge
Why make it go round and round?
It’s not gratifying anymore to lick in bed
◊
The sound of pedicab have just passed by
The song of drunk men was already over
The button of the lighter was already broken
Why it screech inside again?
It’s deafening to hear your stupid song
◊
Is it possible to rebind us with rotten cologne?
I don’t know coz this one night
The scent of emotions are now barely sensed
Why?
It is freaking annoying to joggle alone in bed with someone like you.
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TABACO CITY –Devastated by typhoon Trix in 1952, the once habitable land filled with houses and residents was completely vanished and sunk underwater. The place reappeared and formed into a beautiful hook-like surface that receives streams of freshwater from the mainland city. The island that can be glanced from Tabaco pier is called “Natunawan Cove.”
Today, no houses or buildings installed on the hundred-hectare ground due to its lower elevation. However, the stretch provides food and livelihood for Brgy. Bacolod and nearby places. It also offers reliable anchorage for fishermen’s boats. In addition, a variety of plant and animal species congregate here after more than 50 years.
Annually, the marvelous cove held two special occasions such as Peňafrancia festival mass every first Saturday of September, and celebration of Natunawan festival of Brgy. Pawa every third week of October.
This local yet sensational attraction also gives you several island and mountain range views, clear blue water, and tranquil ambiance. Individual or families can also enjoy the place through jogging, swimming, boating, picnicking or perhaps doing meditation.
Tabaqueňoes take pride of this impressive concave island, the Natunawan cove. This will be the new future haven of Tabaco city.
Best time to be there: Just before sunrise until 8am; and/or 4pm until before sunset. High- or low-tide may vary weekly.
Going there: Rent a small boat (pump boat or with paddles) from Tabaco international seaport. The rent price may range from P100-P400 for a two-way ride.
Things to bring: Sunscreen with high SPF, towel, umbrella, snacks and water.
Spiky’s Photos:
Not a subject of oblation but extending arms to embrace the hassle-free atmosphere.
We’re waiting for Mr. Edgar Bongalon, a fisherman-resident of Brgy. Bacolod, who would accompany us few hundred meters to our destination. From the coastal area of Bacolod, we have seen the swampy area of mangrove, the beautiful cove nestling in seawater, and ships docked in Tabaco pier.
Several terrific panoramic views can also be seen. (Clockwise from top left) Mayon volcano hiding behind the clouds; sunset at back of the slope of Mt. Masaraga and Mt. Malinao; ships cruising on a sparkling clear seawater in front of San Miguel Island; and gentle waves striking the cove’s shore.
Think of stress-free environment, think of health, think of fresh air. Natunawan is ideal for meditation and family picnic.
See the altar? Tabaqueňoes sail to attend mass for Peňafrancia festival held every first Saturday of September. And every third week of October, Barrio Pawa poses a joyous and colorful celebration for Natunawan festival.
Houses have already vanished. (Clockwise from the center) Remnants of 16th century Spanish building was caused by the 1952 typhoon Trix; Payag-payag (small shed) for resting and storing fishermen’s tools; and altar for Peňafrancia festival of Naga city. The background is the surface of San Miguel Island where you can find San Miguel Fishery Reserve, the second best managed reef in the country.
(From L-R inset) Field of grasses with a view of Mayon Volcano; and a dampalit than can be fed on pigs, and used as an alternative for fish ingredient of certain dish. The background image is one of the tallest pine trees. There are also short-term crops that can be reaped from the beautiful greenery like rice, corn, mongo and beans. Maribariw (eelgrass), lato (seaweed) and bakawan (mangroves) can also be found in vicinity.
Fishing is the basic livelihood of residents surrounding the islet. (Clockwise from top left) Kugita/pugita (octopus specie) clung into my thumb; bizarre-looking starfish; small squid plunging deeper into a clear water (notice my reflection); and silag (a small transparent fish) freshly caught by these fishermen. You can also grab other fishes for your table like bulinaw, halas-halas, hipaw, salay salay, banak, and sibobog. Also abundant in the area are the bivalve mollusks like tagati, punaw, takal, kodkod, and sisi. Also present underwater are crabs and ik-ik (peanut worms).
The hook-like islet near the Tabaco Pier is the Natunawan Cove.
See you again, Natunawan cove. Along with my neighbors and Mr. Bongalon, we’re happily paddling back to mainland Tabaco.
In Albay, Ligao City has also something to offer for the trekkers who appreciate the combination of beauties and tranquility of nature. Named after a kawa (frying pan) because of the peculiar shape naturally molded in its upper portion, the Kawakawa hill provides wide array of vegetation, inner and outer serenity for the souls, and spectacular panoramic views of the city and other mountainous places. The 236-meter-high hill has become the center of tourism of the city long before its official opening to the public in October of 2008. The wonder of nature can be reached through a land drive from Legazpi City for 30 minutes.
(Play the audio)
The goal of the place is to promote agriculture and environment. It has a rich and beautiful greenery of Hawaiian pineapple, petsay, banana, dinorado rice, papaya, eggplant, and other crops. I can’t wait to see these fruits to ripe, seem dhu-lhe-see-yeahs.The captivating field of pineapples offers you a price of P40/fruit.
The golden Dinorado rice takes a huge role in the tradition in which Filipino ancestors had started practicing. The rice may give you a sweet, fragrant smell of jasmine when cooked. Since it is often a staple food for the Bicol’s wealthy families, Hon. Gonzalez opted to encourage farmers to spread use of Dinorado. Everyone is welcome here. No charges upon entering. Thanks to Hon. Fernando Gonzalez, an ex-governor of Albay, who owned and preserve the place for years.
The Way of the Cross in Kawakawa hill has been altered. You will bump into the Last Supper with life-size statues as its First Station. However, the Last Station would be the Resurrection. An uphill climb is such an arduous task that’s why nipa huts are scattered around Kawakawa for others to take a break. According to the people of Ligao, Gov. Gonzalez would be installing cable cars for the elders in the near future. Walking on a steep hill may be excruciating for the older ones. I could feel I was having a sense of security and an extra courage to face my own battle as I moved from station to another. The hill seems like both magical and an agony reliever. In a huge-bowl field, visitors who would want to play around the obstacle course can do it freely. They can also enjoy horseback riding (P15/ride for adults) with an assistance of a trainer from the BSP Eagle Scout Advancement Camp and Facilities. The wonderful hill has also many activities held every year including the Dinorado Harvest Festival, Thanksgiving Traditional Fireworks, and Holy Week ceremonies. The bird’s eye view from Kawakawa hill will let you see the land carpets in green and blue of the city and neighboring towns. West from the hill shows the stretch of Mt. Masaraga range, another wealth of Albay. Mountain climbers can never forget to include this range in their lists.
To the south from the hilltop, you can see the Malisson Spring Resort where one can dip into the water from thousands small channels after taking a rest from an energy-draining climb. The resort also provides with ample relaxation like fishing and videoke singing. Just in front of Kawakawa, there’s a resettlement site, “California Village,” for the victims of typhoons and flashfloods. Joggers and health-conscious individuals can follow this path, Kawa-kawa trek, encircling the amphitheater-like field. It is very clever to clasp and feel the cleanliness and freshness of air around the hill. Safety precautions are indicated in downhill and hilltop areas.
The left direction of the life-size nun statue has the Divine Mercy Monastery of the Carmelite Nuns of the Holy Trinity, Diocese of Legazpi and soon there’ll be a Devine Mercy Shrine as requested by the congregation. Related Post:
Is it too early for people to feel Christmas spirit this November? For us Filipinoes, it is a no-no. It would never be a surprise to us. As early as September, you can already see brilliant display of coloful Christmas decors on houses and streets, and new or familiar songs can already be heard over the radio or television to cheer us up. With Philippines’ rich culture, this country is such a heart-warming place to live and most people would rarely feel being alone…so let’s dance for that.
Christmas carol with a twist: no singing but dancing in the afternoon. A group of elementary students in Antipolo City did the dragon dance house-to-house. Rapid drum beats made the dancing more exciting.
It’s going to blink its eyes.
Say, ahhhhh. Controlled by a kid, the dragon opened its mouth.
Loosening up is the best thing to do after an energy-draining activity, right?
A toast for ending Book 1.
Feeling the coldness of a beer.
This was my last view of this little Christmas tree since I left Albay almost three weeks ago.
I’ve been carrying the recent memories of the province in myself - the laughter of the little kids, the pain and joys of rural life, and those people who touched my life. Of course, who would forget the beautiful local sceneries where I used to sprawl around?
As I take another step away from home gaining new perspectives, I will just fill my heart with hopes, optimism, and dedication on this whole new course (disregarding the city’s polluted air and brutal heat).
Whatever or whoever comes along, I would keep coming back for you, my home Albay. See you this December.
Advance Merry Christmas to all!
Zero visibility during the approach of Typhoon Reming. My family was blessed that we have a stronger house foundation located a couple of hundred away from the Basud-San Roque river.
Maximum velocity: 265kph
Philippine death toll: 720 or above (more than 300 from Bicol)
Damages: P3 billions
1. Beautifully preserved Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga withstood the strong wind velocity; 2. Ravage of typhoon ruined the well-known Cagsawa 1814 bar and restaurant near the ruins; 3. Devastated stalls selling local products near the ruins; 4. On the way to the ruins, rescuers tried to uncover possible buried bodies
5. Soccer field of Aquinas University; 6. Ginormous Boulders rolled over Brgy. Padang burying the victims; 7. Ruined dike at San Jose of Malilipot; 8. Destroyed households and livestock company building in Brgy Culliat, Daraga, Albay
9. Stripped cockpit arena in Tabaco City; 10. Blown off school roofs and cemented fence; 11. Blocked Padang-Bigaa-Arimbay road with gravel and sand; 12. Ricefield was totally covered with boulders and sand in Sto. Domingo
13. Mostly tree branches and twigs were left on the hill and its vicinity; 14. Wrecked and covered Lidong Bridge in Legazpi City; 15. Dikes were zapped in at Brgy Basud, Tabaco City; 16. We’re not in Divisoria, but in Serra Subdivision in Tabaco City
17. Whacked up doorknob at our house; 18. Finding your own way in Bacacay; 19. Strong blow of the wind caused this bus to lose control in Pawa, Tabaco City; 20. Poor dead eel in Sto. Domingo, Albay
Thousands of small spring channels – that’s what comes to my mind when I think of Malisson Spring Resort. The place will suffice your tired body with two pools of clear water.
The haven also provides you with cool activities where one can find an ample time to relax and enjoy mountains and lake view (e.g. Kawakawa Hill). To have a taste of nature, you can catch your own fresh, organic-fed tilapia through boating and fishing. Videoke machine is there to entertain dippers and tourists who would find singing a sort of relief. The resort with function hall, and open and close cottages can accomodate different occasions from simple children’s party to wedding reception.
It would be luckier than you can think of if you happen to be there during late afternoons of Fridays and Saturdays. The resort’s owner has local bands that would give sounds to calm your nerves from the stressful weekdays.
Have your quick escape into Malisson Spring Resort in Ligao City that would give a new perspective about nature.
Entrance: P40-P45
Getting at the resort: 3-kilometer ride though a well-paved road from Ligao City center; or 30-minute drive from Legazpi City
Kiddie Pool
Go boat and fish on a wide lake Picturesque nature resort Spoil your time singing in its bar and restaurant
Spiky decided to be in city cemetery late in the evening on November 1 just before midnight. During that time, mass was already done, most people left for their homes, and kids started to collate many candle waxes as they can. I then joined my relatives and friends for quick and short conversations, and of course, to offer sympathy. After that, Spiky had the chance to roam around a bit with my friends.
Candles in the dark made someone embrace their Undas (All Souls’ Day) moments.
Brighter lights in Cemetery. Definitely, there won’t be any momo (ghost) coming out.
Unique display of reminiscing love ones. I have never seen this before of my entire life, not until this Undas.
For my dearest Mama, I still miss you. I undoubtedly really miss you. Don’t worry about us, we’re ok here. Hugs and kisses.
For my lola, I hope you are in peace and harmony with God. I hope you are feeling happy especially together with your daughter. I miss you also.
For my friend Ace, I wish I have heard what happened to you a bit earlier. So long dude and ‘til our next jamming.
For Ondoy-Pepeng-Santi victims, I hope all of you heal inside and out, and live on in the hands of God.
My prayers for all of you this Undas and beyond.
Few days after the horrific rage of Typhoon Reming that struck Bicolandia in November 2006, stories of paranormal activities about buried victims in barrio Padang in Legazpi City had flourished at nearby places. Many feared to pass through the area as ghosts may show up waving at them, and unexplainable human forms riding at the back of their seats may be experienced by the motorists. Local residents were also haunted by these rumored sightings.
On a cold, dark night, a saleslady who just went out from her work was going home in Padang. The path several meters leading to her home was partially passable due to volcanic soil and rock deposits.
She was walking alone with no lit posts on the sidewalk until she saw an unclear white image. She began to quiver pondering that it would be a ghost. She profusely perspired but it kept moving towards her.
She cried and screamed so loudly and helplessly, “May multo, may multo!” (Ghost, Ghost!).
Thinking that she will die in the hands of a ghost, she then screamed louder, and her eyes grew bigger. No one was there to save that poor girl from predicament but herself.Then the ‘ghost’ went nearer and nearer until it spoke.
“Hoy nene, tanod ako.” (Hey lady, I’m a village patroller.) [Bwahahahahahaha x4]
How odd but she was thankfully spared from her death. “Hay, si tiyo man, nata man nakaputi ka?” (Sir, how could you? Why are you wearing white?), she asked while wiping her tears. She was then escorted by that guy to her home safely.
In this gloomy, dreadful place without enough light, all you have to do is to bring a flashlight with you (plus a lot of prayers) to counter your wild imagination.
Happy Halloween to everyone.
Peek-a-boo!
I happened to bump into Roca Monte Resort just last month without any plan as I was going to prove if there’s a horseback ride in Ligao City. Hesitant to enter, I was welcomed with a smile from a caretaker, and then I smiled back.
The resort is more than a 100-year old with dilapidated buildings, swimming pool and amusement park for kids. Locals and tourists used to travel frequently to witness the beautiful place splendidly built in parts of Albay.
In November 1987, the landfall of super typhoon Sisang (Nina) ransacked the expanse of Roca Monte. Buildings were destroyed and the river passing thru the area flooded the whole resort. It was tremendously damaged that it had to be closed down.
In case you are wondering, recovering this jewel of Albay may be possible. You have to buy the wide spot (? hectares) for millions first. The pioneer of the place, Mr. Roca Monte, who moved to USA with his family died several years ago. However, his daughter is the new owner who plans to sell the property.
Even though the place has been stripped its beauty value 22 years ago, the place has something to offer for the tourists and passers by – the amusement park and few structures can still make you say “Wow!”
Sculpture of Roca Monte installed near the road of Tabaco-Ligao route
Sad yet appealing view from the entrance area
Gift with flower design from the late Pres. Ferdinand Marcos
Elephant with a chair saddle
Dragon slide (partial view) and dwarves near the castle
Ruined Hotel
Giant mouse holding a dagger
Another destroyed building with paintings on the floor
Boy on his hands and the pumpkin-like house
Virgin Mary with farm animals by the riverside
T-rex statue
Unserviceable swimming pool
Two-story structure made of volcanic rocks from Mayon Volcano
I thought I will grow old without having this similar and worthwhile experience again.
On October 14, 2009, it was rainy and the water was high in danaw (lake) of Brgy. Tagaytay in Camalig, Albay. Without having second thought, I immediately said “Yes!”.
Then I changed clothes.
First step, I felt the coldness of brown-colored water and the mud of the lake.
Several steps, my friend got one.
I cheered, “Igwa akong duwang bibe digdi.” “I got two bibe (freshwater mussel) here.”
After an hour of series of stepping deeper into the mud, we’re not contented of what we had in the yellow sack.
I kept on observing.
Then I used my hands while submerging into the water in reaching the base. I got more.
My other friend came to help us. Then we got more.
We’re done. Then I shivered and clicked still appreciating Mayon from the distance even it was partially blocked by the clouds and Mt. Santa Cruzan.
At my dearest friend’s home, we scraped the meat out from the shell and removed the muddy part. We boiled until it was soft enough to masticate.
I asked and he replied. “Ang pagluto ka ini ay crispy fry.” “The way it is cooked is crispy frying.” It was partnered with vinegar sauce with sprinkles of black pepper, and sliced red hot chili pepper.
I grabbed the chaser. Then he said, “Mana, mapuon na kita.” “Come on, let us start.”
Then we thanked Matador for giving us warmth.
Burp!
I never thought that I would have another horseback ride this soon especially in our local province, Albay. My last ride was when I was having a good time with my classmates in Tagaytay City several years ago. After walking uphill in ‘seem-so-ordinary’ hill, Kawakawa of Ligao City, you will be able to ride Macho for just 15 pesos in field of greener grasses.
Aba, akalain mo.
That hill is so relieving especially when resting at the back of the horse and having a chit chat with Macho’s trainer, Mang Jose. You can feel the very fresh air of the hill blowing and enveloping around your tired body. The place is also great for the souls who want to find their inner peace and for those who would truly want to strengthen their bond with God.
Related Post:
Experience a luxurious place to venture in Albay, Philippines.
A sensational, elite tropical destination of Misibis Bay Raintree (MBR) a.k.a. luxurious island playground of the Philippines will provide globetrotters with 24-hour butler service, comforting villas, an invigorating spa, two gratifying restaurants, concocting bars, three dipping pools, relaxing surroundings, and vast selection of activities.
Greetings from the heart!
Posing vibrant smiles, demonstrating Bicol’s Ibalong-themed dance, and saying “Greetings from the heart” will absolutely welcome every guest who just arrived. Refreshing drinks and pampering spa massage upon arrival can also heighten the MBR’s home-like and 5-star hospitality.
“Spice market” restaurant entwines fine dining and ’service from the heart’ to offer the highest quality service. The restaurant also caters with Southeast Asian dishes like Angus beef sinigang, boneless crispy pata, pinangat, Bicol express pizza, chicken inasal and chicken in braised coco cream. Menu de degustacion, a synchronize serving, is something for the diners to look for because of the feeling that you are being served as kings and queens.
Embrace the moment with your friends or special someone through outdoor dining by the poolside or the shore.
A gentle touch of table design in “Spice Market” will make your dining more satisfying and meaningful.
The bites of leche flan turon dipped in vanilla cream with shreds of pili nuts and cinnamon will delightfully play inside your mouth.
Buco lychee martini is the bestseller of Sula bar that is manned by trained bartenders.
Cooking lessons with a world-class chef will entertain your kitchen curiosity as you learn Bikolnon and other gracious creations.
Witnessing the illuminating views of islands, sea, and sky can be experienced by having a sunrise coffee on hilltop.
The villas of Misibis Bay Raintree villas are proud of their modern design of wood and glass, the 300-thread count of their sheets, overlooking panoramic views of beaches, the finest amenities, and home-like atmosphere. The heart-warming place also shares you with fresh flowers and heartfelt notes placed by the bedside.
Children will surely enjoy the water splash in Kiddie Pool and keep moving their muscles on Kiddie playground.
Soak and feel the breathable ambiance of lagoon pool. MBR is also a perfect hideaway for providing a tranquil escape from the stressful life of the urban.
Inflatables and obstacle course will exhilarate your circulation while playing with your friends and family in secured sea water.
MBR has land, aquatic or aerial outdoor activities to offer - up-close views of the majestic Mayon Volcano through helicopter ride, underwater exploration via semi-submersible vessel or scuba diving, ATV riding to Mayon Volcano or nearby eco-theme park, horseback riding, and whale-shark watching in Albay Gulf or Donsol, Sorsogon. Reaching untouched caves and refreshing falls can be extended through island hopping.
Going to gym, and playing table tennis and billiards are just the few of many activities that MBR can provide. Other fun activities would be board, Wii, and PS2 games, LCD cable TV watching, and movie room. WiFi access is a plus for those who want to stay E-connected.
Getting at Misibis Bay Raintree:
Contact Information:
Since May or June of 2009, something has changed in the aerial traffic in Albay. Almost everyday especially when the sky is calmer, I see a helicopter passing by in almost the same path where it is heading. I knew that whenever I see one, passengers would always be the public officials or Philippine soldiers ready to lend their helping hands for the victims of typhoons. But there’s no storm coming. Hmmmm. What’s with that flying? What is going on? (Misibis Bay Raintree)
The 41st National Founding Anniversary of Tau Gamma Phi / Sigma was also celebrated by the brothers and sisters from different chapters of Albay and Sorsogon in the province of Albay this October 4, 2009.
What is it?
Trail the rough roads, sail the seas, and explore the wonders of Albay, Philippines. Join the 1st Albay Eco-Challenge on climate change adaptation in celebration of the 2nd anniversary of the National Conference on Climate Change Adaptation (NCCCA).
When will it be held?
October 25-26, 2009.
How to join?
Screening: Started on August 24, 2009.
Registration Fee: P150/person only
Qualifications: Teams shall be composed of 3 individuals (male/female 18-40 years old); must be mentallly physically, and environmentally fit.
Application Form: Submit accomplished registration forms together with one (1) pc. 2×2 photo and birth certificate on or before October 19, 2009 to the CIRCA Office located at Albay Provincial Capitol Annex II, Legazpi City. (Forms can be downloaded @ www.albaycirca.org)
Whom/Where to inquire?
Event Coordinator: Mr. RYAN BOTER at 09129531515, call telefax (052) 480-3649
Email: circa.albay@gmail.com
Website: www.albaycirca.org
Blogsite: albayecochallenge.multipy.com
