Dear 2015, thank you!

Dear 2015, 

You pained me pretty bad but honestly still, thank you 2015. 

You did not leave me unscathed but I swear, you made me stronger. 

You taught me that being brave and taking risks are sometimes not worth it. But believe, I do not regret them. They are now lessons I had to learn the hard way. 

You also taught me that there are fights I have to surrender and feelings I have to set aside. That there just comes a time that letting go is the only option. I've tried long enough, hard enough so please do not blame me.

Most importantly, you made me realize--not once but twice!--that above anyone else, it should be me. That my heart is fragile. That happiness is key. And that I matter. 

And so for all the bad and the good, I am still grateful for you 2015. 

As you end tonight, I will leave you with a smile. 

Yours truly, 

EUDEN VALDEZ

PHOTO BY RUSSELL PALMA

Gadget Review: #LGG4 The Great

(This story is originally printed and posted for The Manila Times.)   

PHOTO COURTESY OF LG PHILIPPINES

Slowly but surely, LG is becoming a strong competitor against Android smartphone giant Samsung. In recent years, the tech company has developed high quality mobile phones that successfully catered to the ever-growing demands of tech-savvy consumers who access everything with the touch of their fingertips.

For 2015, the electronics company based in South Korea unboxed its highly anticipated LG G4, the successor of 2014’s G3 that has since excelled not only in sales, but also in industry recognition.

Launched simultaneously in six cities around the world, namely New York, London, Paris, Singapore, Istanbul and Seoul, there were high expectations early on the from the global tech scene.

In the Philippines, LG’s new flagship phone was unveiled at Solaire Resort & Casino in Pasay City with an event dubbed “See the Great, Feel the Great.” It gathered Filipino techies, consumers and personalities all excited to get fist dibs on the smartphone.

Shortly after its Philippine revelation, I had the chance to review the G4, which proved to be nothing but great indeed. Here are the many reasons why:

Fast as lightning

LG G4 runs with state-of-the-art chip
and operating system

On top of the list that makes LG G4 at par with other high-end mobile phones is its Snapdragon 808 processor by Qualcomm. One of the company’s latest SOCs (system on a chip) for 2015. The 808 is described by www.qualcomm.com as: “. . . designed to enable advanced connected mobile experiences including streaming 4k ultra HD videos, sharing top-quality digital photos, online 3D gaming, and virtually seamless communications, along with outstanding battery life for premium smartphones and tablets.”

Undoubtedly, LG chose the right SOC with Snapdragon 808 as the speed of the processor is ever present whatever task a user undertakes with the G4—seamless shifting from one application to another, quick loading on social media sites, and no-lag Internet browsing and gaming.The smartphone also runs on the latest Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system (OS) that was launched only in March. This means that updates on the most-downloaded OS was already pre-loaded in G4.

Androidcentral.com lists out some of the changes to the OS like the update on the Quick Settings Panel; dual SIM support; revamped screen pinning; and strengthened device protection, among others.

Clear and vibrant display
Making the user experience is more enjoyable, the smartphone’s 5.5-inch screen features the quad high definition (QHD) display at 2560 x 1440, 538 pixels per inch—the standard of premium smartphones.

Loving the vibrant and clear display

Taking yet another leap, LG added another first with the “IPS Quantum Display” that allows the large display to give 20-percent better color reproduction, 25-percent improvement in brightness, and 50-percent more contrast.

I best experienced this improvement when streaming HD videos in YouTube. Human subjects glowed with healthy skin, while sceneries almost jumped off the screen.Playing games became more engaging and immersive as colors are vivid and details are clear.

And if one finds the screen too bright, brightness can easily be adjusted to one’s preference using the shortcut button found at the Quick Settings panel.

Organic feel
When the G3 was launched in 2014, its most groundbreaking feature was its unique Slim Arc design that runs along its entire body through a subtle curvature. This refreshing change from the uniformly flat mobile phone has become a favorite by LG fanatics.

Thus, seeing no reason to forego the curved aesthetic, LG therefore thought of introducing the same design with a new casing to entice fanatics. This is the luxurious and hand-crafted leather cover.

Not once did I drop this phone from
hand despite its smooth leather cover

Featuring a hand-stitched detail that runs from the top to bottom of the phone—ending only where the power and volume buttons and the camera are positioned (remember that LG was the first to put function buttons at the back of the phone)—the leather casing is organic to the touch.

Surprisingly too, despite the smooth feel, not once did I drop the phone from hand, proving only that the arched back is ergonomic indeed. The leather cover comes in three color choices: black, brown and red.

For those who are not fans of the leather cover, check out three other options namely pure, white ceramic with 3D patterns, artisan-forged gray metal, and lustrous, shining gold.

Also take note that the back casing can be removed, which means that users can even interchange leather covers with other materials.

Professional photography
I also tested G4’s outstanding cameras on both good- and poor-lighted conditions, and both rear and front lenses delivered.

Mostly enjoyed G4's camera in food photography

Unlike other smartphones that already boast of 20- or more megapixel lenses, G4 comes only with 16 megapixels. Nevertheless, the rear camera does not disappoint as it carries what most of its competitors do not—an astounding F1.8 aperture. Tell this to a professional photographer and he will surely be amazed as well because this is considered an industry-wide aperture.

This actually makes the device super sensitive to light and it is best applied during the night when streetlights are yellow to capture a photo with sepia-like filter.

To complement the F1.8 aperture, the camera also has a full Manual Mode where ISO, focus, shutter speed, ISO, exposure and white balance can be adjusted for every shot. Professional and amateur lensmen can also save photos in RAW format, in addition to JPEG.

If the user is too lazy to do any thinking before shooting, let G4 do everything with the Auto Mode. However, be careful with this camera setting as photos turn out too bright or overly saturated sometimes. It still pays to learn basic photography skills to make the most of G4’s outstanding camera.

Another feature is the Color Spectrum Sensor that improves color accuracy by precisely reading the RGB values of the ambient light in a scene, as well as infrared light reflected from objects.

Thanks to its F1.8 aperture, G4's light sensitivity is outstanding

On the other hand, the front camera comes with 8-megapixel lens and F2.0 aperture. But what is even more interesting is its built-in airbrush feature that makes the skin flawless from a scale of one to eight, with eight as the highest. This is sure to become a selfie-addict favorite.

Familiar features and other bonuses
As LG’s new flagship phone, G4 is the perfect upgrade for people who loved the predecessor G3. They will find retained features very familiar like the Dual Window option that allows two different apps to run at the same time on the screen, as well as the Quick Setting that allows scribbling on photos and screenshots.

Meanwhile, other features that I approve of include battery life, expandable memory, Internet connectivity and endless applications.

To conclude, the LG G4 is the perfect phone for solid Android users because they just may find all that they are looking for in smartphone in this single unit—only faster and better.

For more information, visit www.lg.com/ph or follow @LGPhilippines on Twitter and Instagram.

Mt. Pinatubo: Beauty in destruction

The beautiful caldera crater of the Pinatubo Volcano

The first ever eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in June 15, 1991 was recorded in history as one of the strongest not only in the Philippines but also in the world.  

But did you know that before that fateful day, Filipinos--especially those living in the provinces of Tarlac, Pampanga and Zambales where the mountain sprawls--did not know that there is actually a volcano sleeping underneath the earth surface? For 500 years it laid dormant until it finally awoke--dangerous and deadly. 

Today's reminder of the strong
1991 erruption

Thankfully, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) predicted the eruption early enough to allow evacuations that saved thousands upon thousands of Filipinos living in the region.

Still, Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption was so strong that it spewed big amounts of lava and volcanic ash. The effects of volcanic spews was further intensified by a typhoon caused massive lahar flow. It also emitted millions of tons of sulfur dioxide that was even reported to have contributed to the depletion of ozone layer.

More than two decades later, the once destructive Mt. Pinatubo is now a beautiful destination in the country. The communities surrounding it have also fully recovered and more importantly, have been even benefitting to the industries that came after the eruption—one of them is a bustling eco-tourism.

After registration at Brgy. Sta. Juliana in Capas, Tarlac, go on a 20-kilometer,
4x4 vehicle ride to get closer to Mt. Pinatubo. 

Go on 4x4

With a number of beautiful and exciting mountains scattered all over the Philippines, Mt. Pinatubo is considered as one of the most accessible to local and foreign tourists alike.

Located at the Cabulisan Mountain Range that snakes the provinces of Tarlac, Zamblaes, and Pampanga, Mt. Pinatubo is only a three-hour drive from Metro Manila.

Enjoying this view with media friends
from other publicationsafter the 4x4 tide

Take-off points are found in four towns in Tarlac namely Capas, San Jose, Bamban and Mayantoc. Among them, Barangay Sta. Juiliana in Capas is the most popular because it houses the Satellite Municipal Tourism Office where all tourists are required to register whenever going to Mt. Pinatubo.

After the registration, visitors will then embark on a 20-kilometer 4x4 vehicle ride to get closer to Mt. Pinatubo’s lake. Lasting for about an hour, the scenery during this drive include expansive of landscapes of lahar—now serving as an industrial industry where locals quarry construction materials.

But to prove that it is still part of nature, herds of cows could be seen dotting the surrounding. There is also what the locals call as the “Crow Valley Canyon,” a combination of green valleys and grey canyons. There are also rocky rivers and terrains that make the ride even more exciting.

The hike will make one understand how powerful the 1991 eruption was

Climb to the top

After the ride, visitors will then embark on another five-kilometer trek this time by foot to finally reach the crater. Although quite long, the trail is considered friendly because it doesn’t require a steep climb. Most part of the trek is on even dried soil and rubble, as well as solid lahar.

Along the way, make sure to greet the children of the Aetas—an indigenous tribe that still thrive within Pinatubo.

This stop-over signals that your closer to the top

Also, the surroundings will also make hikers understand how powerful the 1991 eruption was. What was once mountains peaks transformed into walls upon walls of dried lava.

The destination gets closer when the trail becomes smaller and more vegetated. Finally, a man-made staircase climbs up to crater. Once there, just let the beautiful scenery take your breath away.

At the peak of Mt. Pinatubo is a caldera lake that is 2.7 kilometers wide. It was formed during the 1991 eruption when the volcano collapsed forming a cauldron shape in the middle.

Welcome!

This submerged piece of land then catches water so it becomes a lake. However, mineral deposits of the volcano still reach the lake that is why swimming is prohibited no matter how clear or cool the water is.

A hub for eco-tourism

Besides the Mt. Pinatubo Lake, the province of Tarlac is promoting other tourist destinations that make up an eco-tourism hub.

Also in Brgy. Sta. Juiliana is the Mt. Telakawa, an alternative mountain destination for visitors who are up for a more extreme hiking challenge.

There are also scenic body of waters like the Duglo Falls in San Jose, the Siwako River in Bamban, and the Nambalan River in Mayantoc. 

Group shot with media friends and ECCO execs at the crater

***

This story was originally published for The Manila Times. Read "Back to the Boondocks" to know more. 

This trip was sponsored by ECCO shoes. Visit "Ecco O2 conquers Mt. Pinatubo" to know more. 

(TEXT AND PHOTOS: ©EUDENVALDEZ) 

Baler Part 3: Beyond Sabang

The secluded paradise of Dicasalarin Cove and Bay

Summer is not yet over. While we are experiencing rains and thunderstorms these days, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has predicted that the rainy season will come middle of June. 

That only means that there is still time to catch your one last epic summer adventure. Those in search for one could head over to the town of Baler in Aurora province. There, you can enjoy the big waves of Sabang Beach and try surfing for the first time.

An already known surfing destination in Northern Philippines, local tourists are seen lining the shore of Sabang on top of surfboards. Why not when surfing lessons come at a very affordable P300 fee per hour.

But while many go to Baler expecting to hit the waves, surprisingly though, this quaint and historical town in Luzon have more water escapades to offer. 

Here are other "wet" destinations you can visit when in Baler: 

DICASALARIN COVE
Dicasalarin Cove and Bay is a hidden paradise found at the southeastern area of Baler, which opens up to the vast Pacific Ocean. 

There, a rustic resort, which is owned by the political and public servant family of the Angaras. According to locals, former Sen. Edgardo Angara Sr. could be seen lounging around in his personal villas on weekends. Everyone needs peace and quiet and I'm sure he finds it at Dicasalarin Cove.

More villas are available for accommodations for people who want to spend more time at the secluded cove--away from all of Sabang Beach's crowd and happenings. 

But for those pressed with time or budget, they could always opt for a day tour and just pay the resort's entrance fee. Here's what to do: 

1. Swim! Take a dip at the beach's clear water with friendly waves. Also, the sand is white so if you are a beach person, this is the perfect place for you.

2. Climb! Go up the steep stairs of one of the hills in Dicasalarin where a lighthouse sits on top. And once there, challenge yourself once more to climb the metal stairs of the lighthouse. If not brave enough, just savor the view of the surroundings including rock formations, mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean.  

After the cool dip and exciting climb, take a break at the resort's restaurant that serves good pizza. Or walk to the Artist's House which serves as a gallery with local artworks, photographs, and sculpted wooden furniture. 

3. Visit PAGASA. When going to Dicasalarin Cove, make sure to stop by the PAGASA station, which you will pass by. Found at the highest point of the cove's mountain, its location is perfect to monitor the weather patterns of Northeastern Luzon. Take time to talk to the weather forecasters and observers to understand the importance of their work. 

DIGUISIT BEACH
Located before Dicasalarin Cove when coming from Baler town proper, Diguisit Beach on the other hand offers a different attraction to tourists. Its beautiful and natural rock formations. 

While you can also swim in the beach, it's more fun to explore the various rock formations--big or small--which can be accessed and climbed by foot when the tide is low. 

HANGING BRIDGE
Last stop before you head back to Baler's Sabang or town proper will be the favorite destination of locals and visitors alike, the hanging bridge. 

Are you adventurous enough to cross the hanging bridge? Well, there is nothing to worry because the bridge is now safe and secure except of course for the bumpy and shaky feeling when people are crossing. 

My brother tells me that its condition now that tourism is picking up in Baler has greatly improved. Before, it used to have missing wooden planks! 

These are just some of the other destinations featuring bodies of water that you can visit in Baler besides Sabang. Make sure to check them out the next time! 

Also read "Baler Part 1: Around town" by following this link, or "Baler Part 2: Sidetrip to Mother Falls" by following this link. 

(TEXT AND PHOTOS ARE MINE. ©EUDENVALDEZ)

Albay: The ultimate Mayon adventure

Majestic Mayon 

The moment I arrived at Legazpi International Airport in Legazpi City in Albay province, I got my first glimpse of the Philippines' most prized Mayon Volcano, known around the world for its perfect inverted conical shape. 

And I immediately realized that the Mayon (derived from the Bikolano word magayon which translates to beautiful in English) was majestic and imposing than all its pictures I had ever seen. I never imagined it to be that beautiful and big as it sits right in the middle of Albay's three cities and 15 municipalities and towers at almost 8,000 feet above sea level.  

The tease that is Mayon

However, within my two days spent at Albay, Mayon seemed to enjoy teasing me as there were always clouds surrounding her, sometimes at the base but most of the times at its crater.

Thus, I couldn't wait to see Mayon in its full grandeur! 

Finally after the long wait--that included the Daragang Magayon beauty pageant's coronation night in Legazpi capital and a day tour of Camalig town--I finally got my fill of Mayon in an adventure beyond my wildest imagination. 

Bicol Adventure ATV has four kinds of ATV
and four different trails to choose from

Thanks to the Department of Tourism by allowing the media junket I was part in to take the ATV ride to Mayon Volcano offered by Bicol Adventure, found in the town of Daraga. 

Arriving late in the afternoon, Bicol Adventure assistant manager and trail master and designer John Morales immediately welcomed us and assisted us in taking initial ATV driving lessons. 

As a first-timer aware of ATV horror stories, I bravely took on a single ATV! Thankfully, Bicol Adventure drivers/guides/instructors handled us professionally and carefully. I finished the beginner's practice lane which included going uphill and downhill, as well as a rocky stream. 

After that quick trial, the whole group through the recommendation of Sir John decided to ride with Bicol Adventure's drivers so that we could catch the sunset at Mayon's Green Lava Trail 3 that is approximately 11 kilometers from base and 3,000 feet above sea level!

Riding with our separate trail guides, the Manila media group left at approximately 5 p.m. After passing by all kinds of terrain: river where lava flows, small streams rugged by volcanic rocks, flat roads filled with volcanic ash, communities and mountain vegetation, we finally arrived at our destination, the drive took about 45 minutes. 

And although we weren't prepared physically (not only from the bumpy ride but also from bathing in and breathing dust), the view was worth it. 

At 360 degrees, I savored the majestic Mayon, which by then came out in full; the Albay Gulf, which faces the province of Sorsogon and according to my guide Lhanz, we were lucky also because clouds cleared and also showed Mt. Bulusan, an active volcano just like Mayon; the rest of Daraga and Legazpi City; and finally the beautiful setting sun. 

Everything just took my breath away. 

According to my trail guide Lhanz Asuncion, Green Lava 3 is the highest trail offered via ATV in Albay. Bicol Adventure's two competitors only traverse the Black Lava trail which reaches only the lava wall at 900 feet above sea level. 

Besides being informative, Lhanz is also a success story thanks to Albay's teeming tourism. After doing odd jobs in Manila, Lhanz returned home and found a job he is passionate about: riding while sharing the beauty of his land's treasure, the Mayon.  

Lhanz Asuncion (right) with a fellow trail guide

On the way back, it was getting dark already and where better to pass than a ghost town? My trail guide and driver Lhanz ably noted the old community that was ruined by the powerful 18th century Mayon eruption that also buried the Cagsawa village (the church bell tower a visual reminder). Left behind were houses, a school and the church now part of the six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone. 

Nevertheless, this only added to the thrill!

So ultimately, ATV ride at Mayon Volcano is something I would love to do again. See you Albay!

The Department of Tourism's media junket from Manila
at approximately 3,000 ft of Mayon Volcano--clearly happy from the experience

(Visit Bicol Adventure here to know their complete list of services and rates. You can also contact John Morales at 0948-9542702, or Lhanz Asuncion at 0927-5022991)

Baler Part 2: Sidetrip to 'Mother Falls'

Enjoy this scenery on your way to Mother Falls

Considered as one of the most famous destinations for Baler visitors, Mother Falls is actually not found in Baler but in neighboring town of San Luis in Aurora province. 

Only a couple of minutes when traveling via PUVs from Baler (individuals or groups can rent vans or tricycles depending on budget), Mother Falls has become a favorite not only because of its proximity but also its experience. 

The trek to Mother Falls 

Officially named the Ditumabo Falls as it is found in Barangay Ditumabo, Mother Falls is nestled within a portion of the majestic Sierra Madre Mountain Range (one of the longest in the Philippines as it traverses Luzon from north to south). 

For starters, the hike going to the falls itself is much longer than the drive to Barangay Ditumabo. It usually takes an hour of leisurely trek going to the falls, so definitely, it takes about three hours back and forth with swimming, rest and snacks already included in between. 

But don't be afraid as the hike to the falls is friendly especially for those who are active or who are used to hiking because distance from the foot of the mountain to the falls itself is just a kilometer. 

Green and moist. So fresh and cool to the eyes. 

And although the terrain is rugged with lots of boulders and streams to cross, this is part of the experience itself, which is further heightened by the mountain's rainforest. The rocky, flowing streams and "baby" falls that comes from Mother Falls combined with the lush, green canopy and moisty flora, the trek offers the perfect scenery to commune with Mother Earth. 

Unfortunately, serenity is broken by the continuous going in and out of people so I suggest not to visit Mother Falls during peak season--which is now. 

You're near the destination once you begin ascent
on a flat and concrete walkway

You know you're halfway to the destination when you reach the hut where you will have to pay an environmental fee. My brother, who had been to Mother Falls even before all the hype, said that trekking used to be free. I do hope that all the money is actually going to the preservation of the place. 

Upon reaching an upward concrete walkway, then you'll know you're near Mother Falls. And seeing it, you'll understand why it is dubbed such. 

Indeed, Mother Falls is bigger than all the other falls that you will pass by. At its bottom is a crystal clear pool of icy spring water! Take a dip, shower under the big falls if you can, and just let the feeling wash away your exhaustion from hiking. 

Sorry blurred! The falls was so strong its mists reached my lenses

Another downside though, the summer season sure brings in a lot of tourists as you'll have to share the Mother Falls with others, many others! Would you believe that people who are just arriving and those who are already leaving even cause traffic in the narrow walkway! Best be careful or you might slip and fall.  

If you want to escape the crowd, try going to the smaller pools and falls below, and wade there all you want. 

If you find the Mother Falls too crowded,
take a shower in the smaller falls instead 

On you're way down, make sure to stop by the food huts of the locals of Barangay Ditumabo to taste some of their delicacies like banana cue and suman, as well as popular snacks like grilled hotdog and corn. You can also take home freshly picked paco (green shoots that grow in the mountains) sold by the vendors. 

All in all, I'd love to visit Mother Falls again sans the noisy crowd! 

And maybe if there is a good guide, I can also see what locals call the "Father Falls"! If this is true, said falls is much bigger than Mother Falls and found deeper and higher within the mountains!

View my collection of Mother Falls here. 


Read "Baler Part 1: Around town" by following this link or "Baler Part 3: Beyond Sabang by clicking this link.

(TEXT AND PHOTOS ARE MINE. ©EUDEN VALDEZ)

Baler Part 1: Around town

Museo de Baler is found at the site where
Commonwealth President Manuel Quezon was born.

Baler is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines having marked its 400th year in August of 2011. Because of this, its culture is enriched by history and heritage as seen in its streets and structures, and as spoken by its people.

Yet the capitol town of Aurora province is also teeming with adventures. Nestled in the Caraballo Range of the Sierra Madre Mountains and outlined by the Pacific Ocean in east, Baler is home to Sabang Beach, which is famous for surfing, as well as a number of other natural wonders--making it a promising hub for eco-tourism.

As a first-timer in this new land, I could say that all my cravings for culture and adventure were satisfied in a span of three days--with many more places left to see and experience.

In this first part of a series, join me as I toured around town by following Baler's historical trail, and by walking another kilometer from Kilometer Zero. 

Baler Church where the historic Siege of Baler took place

Baler's historical trail begins with its church, established by Franciscan priests using nipa and bamboo only at Sabang Beach in 1500s. Destroyed by a tsunami in the 17th century, it was transferred and built where it stands today. 

Besides being the town's symbol of Catholicism and faith, the church is also a historical place as it is where Spanish soldiers last stood against the Filipino revolution from 1898 to 1899. 

Quoting its historical marker: "A Spanish garrison of four officers and fifty men was besieged in this church by Filipino insurgents from June 2, 1898 to June 27, 1899. . . The garrison learned for the first time that the Philippines had been lost to Spain and that for many months, there had been no Spanish flag in Luzon, except the one waving over Baler Church."

A reproduction of the signatures of the Spanish soldiers
who survived the Siege of Baler. The original
 is displayed in a museum in Spain

The brave Spanish soldiers had to endure so much from the equally brave Filipinos who fought for freedom at last. Many died from disease and some were killed. Those who survived from the siege were "rewarded by the Queen Regent" upon their return to their homeland. 

After Baler Church, a visitor/tourist/wanderer then follows the trail (quite literal because there are actually footsteps imprinted at the the streets) to the residence of Doña Aurora Quezon, wife of Philippine Commonwealth President and Father of Filipino Language Manuel Quezon. Both hails from the town and lived very near from each other. (The provinces of Quezon and Aurora were named after the president and first lady, respectively.)

The residence of Dona Aurora

A local friend even told me, that the people of Baler believe that Doña Aurora and President Quezon were even related by blood (magkamag-anak?!).

Moving on, next stop is the town's Municipal Plaza. The current location of the plaza is where survivors of the December 27, 1735 tsunami rebuilt the new town hall, as well as the church. Only a few families survived by climbing up Ermita Hill, considered as one of the highest peaks of Baler. 

In front of the municipal hall, a monument of National Hero Jose Rizal stood the test of time. Beside him, a bust of Andres Bonifacio was also built. A few paces to his left, a monument of President Quezon was erected by former Sen. Edgardo Angara, also a favorite son of Baler thanks to the legacy left by his parents. 

Also at the plaza is the "Baler 400 Years" commemorative monument by Filipino installation artist Junyee. It features four pillars interconnected by 100 horizontal lines to represent the town's four centuries of history. Again, it was commissioned by former Sen. Angara. 

I bet the monuments of Jose Rizal and President Manuel Quezon
are enjoying this change in scenery  

Last on the list is the Museo de Baler located on a site where President Quezon was born on August 19, 1878. The Commonwealth president is very much associated to Baler that even up to this day, many Filipinos still think that the town is still part of Quezon province. (Aurora used to be part of Quezon until it was created a province in 1979 and Baler was chosen to be its capitol town.)

The museum is built only in 2003 again through the efforts of the Angaras. Large and old trees surround the museum, and in the middle, sits a very majestic sculpture of President Quezon. 

The museum features a traditional structure covered in red bricks and bronze bas-reliefs depicting historical moments of the Philippines. 

Inside, a collection of town artifacts are found, as well as contemporary collections in partnership with other institutions like the Instituto Cervantes Manila. 

Beyond the historical trail, there is also so much more to see in downtown Baler. Here are the sights I spotted and shot: 

Balerianos are devout of the Nazareno too; The defunct Bank of Baler spotted

(Clockwise from top left) The old Georgina Cinema; the town market;
an old establishment; and a printing press

Baler in numbers:

9,255 hectares: land area;
about 39,109: population;
3rd class: municipality;232 kilometers away from Manila with
4 to 8 estimated travel time.

View my photo essay of Baler's historical structures and commercial establishments here.

Read "Baler Part 2: Sidetrip to Mother Falls" by following this link, or "Baler Part 3: Beyond Sabang by clicking this link.

(TEXT AND PHOTOS ARE MINE. ©EUDENVALDEZ)

First trip of 2015: Cebu City

I declare 2015 to be the year that I will explore the Philippines and hopefully nearby Asian countries on my own. I will take it one place at a time. 

Basilica Minore del Santo Nino

Last week, I was sent to Cebu to cover the press launch of Cebu Pacific's lifestyle reward program, the GetGo. The event was held at the Movenpick Hotel in Mactan Island at Lapu-Lapu City. 

Since the coverage was only overnight, I decided to extend my stay in Cebu for another night. Why? Because, the truth is, even if it wasn't my first time at the Visayan province, I still hadn't visited Cebu City's touristy destinations, like the Basilica del Sto. Niño and the Magellan's Cross for example!

Fuente Osmeña

But more than that, I really wanted to explore one of the Philippines' oldest towns, dubbed "Downtown Cebu," and immerse myself in the Cebuano community. After all, that's what travelling really is, right?
For my extra night, I stayed at Summit Circle in Fuente Osmena Circle (or the rotunda), and the hotel is just above a Robinsons Mall (coincidentally, both properties are also owned and run by the Gokongwei's of CebuPac).

Checking in late in the afternoon, I immediately went to go to the old town square by taking the multi-cabs that pass by the hotel. The ride was nice because in a way, it was sightseeing in itself. And the driver was kind enough to bring me to my destination. 

First up was the Church and Convent of Santo Niño. One of the oldest churches in the province, the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino was first established in 1565 by Augustinian fathers led by Rev. Andres Urdaneta. 

Serving as Cebu's head church, the basilica had a steady stream of people visiting and praying that day, even if it was a Wednesday. The security guard even told me that it wasn't as much as the crowd on weekends. "Hindi na magkasya ang tao," he noted. 

Upon entering the vicinity, I immediately saw people lighting candles as an offering for their prayers. I lighted six candles myself for six of the most important people of my life. 

And then, I went inside the church itself and there were also many Cebuanos. Younger ones were just sitting quietly, while older ones were practicing older traditions like kneeling up to the altar in prayer. 

Meanwhile, a long line of people were awaiting to touch the image of the Santo Nino, which is really the center of church's faith.

The church had a garden with a beautiful wishing well, as well religious statues. Also surrounding the church are images of Mother Mary, Jesus Christ and other saints encased in glass. 

Acts of faith

And in whatever relic or moment, people were always paying their respects. That was why the agnostic me was really touched by the faith of the Cebuanos. 

Warm smiles

Besides exploring the Basilica, I also chatted with a group of female employees sitting in front of the Cebu City Hall, standing mighty beside the basilica. They readily offered their warm smiles to me when I asked to take a photo of them. 

Unfortunately, the Magellan's Cross was closed for renovation because it was also affected by the 2013 earthquake that hit Visayas.

After that, I walked to the nearby Carbon district. Brave and alert, I actually walked the back streets, which very much looked like Binondo or Divisoria. There were old establishments for trades of all sort. I thought there would be danggit at the Carbon Public Market but there wasn't.

So I walked the area some more to where I could get another jeep to Taboan Market, the famous place for danggit, pusit and other edible pasalubong like the otap and Carcar chicaron. All of the above was included in my must have for my matakaw family.

The bustling district of commerce, Carbon

Hungry from all the walking and photographing, I had to take the cab this time back to Fuente Osmena and straight to Larsian. Oh Larsian! 

Inside, a food haven awaits me

A famous dining destination in Cebu City, I would have not known this place if not from the recommendation of CebuPac's Allan Florendo, head of GetGo marketing. 

From what Sir Allan told me, I imagined Larsian to be a dampa style of dining where you get fresh and raw food, usually seafood, and have it cooked by the food outlets. The difference was that instead of each outlet cooking your food privately, there is a big grilling area right at the center of Larsian. 

Going around, I found a spot that appeared to me, the most friendly to a lone diner. So I sat at the tip of the long table, away from the group of family. While waiting for my local sausage, they simply call it sweet and spicy chorizo, and white marlin to be grilled, three strangers sat near me. 

Alone no more! My dining buddies that night.

Talking, I heard the American tell another foreigner that it would be exciting to eat at the place. It appeared that it was his first time. Ever the madaldal me, I commented I am quite excited as well as it was my first time too. 

And with that, I got the invitation to join them in dinner. And I did because it was the chance to share and hear new stories. As it turned out, the American named Dana was joined by his Cebuana girlfriend Bing, and the other one, Peter, was a Scot who was traveling around Asia for a month. The trio met at the airplane coming from Palawan to Cebu. 

Masarap!

Because we were eating, the subjects of our conversation became food, local delicacies from all over the Philippines, and Scotland's very own cuisine, which was very interesting. We also talked about traveling, of course!

After that, we parted ways with filled tummies and an unforgettable night. 

The next day, it was time to head back to Manila. But there was no getting home until I had my Avatar, an accessories brand originating from Cebu, as well as the famous Cebu lechon, said to be one of the best in the entire country. 

Accessories heaven

The perfect lechon

Fortunately for me, both could be found at the Mactan International Airport so I spent my remaining time shopping and eating, again! 

'Til next time Cebu! There are still so many things to do and see in this Queen City of the South. 

(ALL PHOTOS ARE MINE. TAKEN WITH NOKIA LUMIA 1520)