A few moons back, Tutubi setup his Twitter account together with a Facebook page but only managed to announce his Twitter page here due to his very busy schedule as well as the demands of taking care of Tutubi, Jr. where his priority really should be.
At least after a few months of hiding in the cellar, he finished setting up a Facebook page for this blog for some people who spend time on FB and Twitter to follow him or ask him questions on anything under the budget travel sun.
Follow Tutubi on Facebook.
For Twitter users, you may Follow Tutubi on Twitter.
Tutubi will make it a point from now on to announce where he's at, where he's going, upcoming posts (teasers) and other thoughts.
Lastly, save yourself the trouble of searching for the enigmatic Tutubi's personal profile on Facebook for there's really none, one of the few techies out there who really don't have one...and proud of it!
28 September 2010
27 September 2010
Tacloban Accommodations: Welcome Home Pensionne
An officemate of Tutubi asked him for his recommendations on "where to stay in Tacloban" where he mentioned two places: Luxury Suites and Welcome Home Pensionne, two places he stayed at in Tacloban but upon checking this blog, he found out he's yet to provide an entry on Welcome Home Pension...so here's a quick post on the Tacloban pension house.
Pension houses are small hotels favored by budget travelers like Tutubi. In this case, he only opted to stay here just to try something different rather than stay again at the Luxury Suites. This pension house fits his budget so much that he can afford to rent the largest room available but why bother? He only checked it, dropped his bag, returned late at night and left the next day. He doesn't need the frills of luxury hotels like the overrated Leyte Park Hotel (please avoid the place like a plague).
Tutubi's backpack on the bed with the refrigerator and TV visible.
the color theme may not appeal to you but Tutubi doesn't mind. He merely wanted to rest well for the night then check out the following day
Brief review of Welcome Home Pension House:
Cheap hotel with clean rooms though a bit old yet homey. Tutubi's room is actually too big for him though. TV turned on only for company late at night after dinner at Calle Z (for pakdol, Leyte's version of bulalo) and a few bottles of beer for a taste of Tacloban night life. Location is at the city center just across the Duptours van terminal). No meals available for your room though so you have to eat some place else.
Room rates: starts at P250.00/person for shared rooms up to P1200.00 for family room with 2 queen size beds. Extra beds at P150.00
Welcome Home Pensione
Address: 161 Sto. Nino St.
Tacloban City 6500
Telephone Number: +63.53.321.2739
please call Welcome Home Pensione contact number for the latest room rates and/or promos.
Related Posts:
Luxury Suites (Tacloban Hotel)
Tacloban City Tour
Tacloban Delicacies
Tacloban Airport Guide
Pension houses are small hotels favored by budget travelers like Tutubi. In this case, he only opted to stay here just to try something different rather than stay again at the Luxury Suites. This pension house fits his budget so much that he can afford to rent the largest room available but why bother? He only checked it, dropped his bag, returned late at night and left the next day. He doesn't need the frills of luxury hotels like the overrated Leyte Park Hotel (please avoid the place like a plague).
Tutubi's backpack on the bed with the refrigerator and TV visible.
the color theme may not appeal to you but Tutubi doesn't mind. He merely wanted to rest well for the night then check out the following dayBrief review of Welcome Home Pension House:
Cheap hotel with clean rooms though a bit old yet homey. Tutubi's room is actually too big for him though. TV turned on only for company late at night after dinner at Calle Z (for pakdol, Leyte's version of bulalo) and a few bottles of beer for a taste of Tacloban night life. Location is at the city center just across the Duptours van terminal). No meals available for your room though so you have to eat some place else.
Room rates: starts at P250.00/person for shared rooms up to P1200.00 for family room with 2 queen size beds. Extra beds at P150.00
Welcome Home Pensione
Address: 161 Sto. Nino St.
Tacloban City 6500
Telephone Number: +63.53.321.2739
please call Welcome Home Pensione contact number for the latest room rates and/or promos.
Related Posts:
Luxury Suites (Tacloban Hotel)
Tacloban City Tour
Tacloban Delicacies
Tacloban Airport Guide
26 September 2010
A Year After the Great Flood of Ondoy: Positive Lessons Learned
It's unposted on this blog but Tutubi was a victim of the flooding of Metro Manila brought about by tropical storm Ondoy (International Name: Ketsana) on September 26, 2009
Typhoon Ondoy's flood early afternoon. Flood waters rose to about 10 feet deep in Tutubi's place, a few inches before it reached the second floor of his home, while Tutubi, Jr, just a few months old and unaware of the tragedy, is sleeping on the third floor
What remained of Tutubi's Toyota Vios, two days after the flood engulped it completely
Even a year later, many people have yet to recover from the trauma and tragedy a year later, news has been filled with stories of tragedies and forgotten heroes, Tutubi's learned how to thrive after the tragedy and learned so many things.
1. He became real close with fellow Ondoy victims in the office, always exchanging stories and updates jokingly on each of their woes.
2. Preparing for a Milenyo-type storm, where he had a roof for shelter for his car constructed earlier is not enough for Ondoy is more destructive.
3. "Acts of God" or "Acts of Nature" car insurance riders are not standard with his company.
4. He has since learned how to check and troubleshoot car problems on his own, even repair car electronics like the digital instrument panel-- really awakened his electronics hobbyist blood. (FYI, Tutubi is an electronics engineer by profession that's why understanding car electrical systems is not hard for him)
5. Just in case it happens again, he can restore a flooded car and make it run again, but there's now car insurance to take care of it so why bother? He can make a business out of it :P
In these days where storms are just on the horizon, it's best to hope for the beat but expect the worst!
Life goes on...
Typhoon Ondoy's flood early afternoon. Flood waters rose to about 10 feet deep in Tutubi's place, a few inches before it reached the second floor of his home, while Tutubi, Jr, just a few months old and unaware of the tragedy, is sleeping on the third floor
What remained of Tutubi's Toyota Vios, two days after the flood engulped it completelyEven a year later, many people have yet to recover from the trauma and tragedy a year later, news has been filled with stories of tragedies and forgotten heroes, Tutubi's learned how to thrive after the tragedy and learned so many things.
1. He became real close with fellow Ondoy victims in the office, always exchanging stories and updates jokingly on each of their woes.
2. Preparing for a Milenyo-type storm, where he had a roof for shelter for his car constructed earlier is not enough for Ondoy is more destructive.
3. "Acts of God" or "Acts of Nature" car insurance riders are not standard with his company.
4. He has since learned how to check and troubleshoot car problems on his own, even repair car electronics like the digital instrument panel-- really awakened his electronics hobbyist blood. (FYI, Tutubi is an electronics engineer by profession that's why understanding car electrical systems is not hard for him)
5. Just in case it happens again, he can restore a flooded car and make it run again, but there's now car insurance to take care of it so why bother? He can make a business out of it :P
In these days where storms are just on the horizon, it's best to hope for the beat but expect the worst!
Life goes on...
23 September 2010
The Old Stone Church of Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna
Longos is a barrio of the town of Kalayaan, the municipality in between Paete (Tutubi's hometown) and the barong weavers' town of Lumban. Tucked away on Real St and walking distance from the Exotikk Restaurant and RS Resort near kilometer marker 100 of Manila East Road (national highway) is the old stone church of Longos dedicated to San Juan Bautista (St. John The Baptist) whose feast day falls on December 27 (the town fiesta of Kalayaan that Tutubi used visit in his childhood).
Built circa 1669 and like most churches in Laguna, it's also founded by the Franciscans.
There's another two other Catholic churches in Kalayaan town, the other first, a new one, in barangay San Juan (Kalayaan's "capital") and another in San Antonio up in the mountains of the Sierra Madre (that's never visited by Tutubi and always teased by his father about it as one of the few places he reached that Tutubi wasn't able to so far, besides Tiwi, Albay)
the belfry of the old stone church
What's sad about this church though is that only the stone facade is quite preserved (quite, because of that eyesore on the church door above the arch) with the very visible use of galvanized iron for it's roof and steel trusses.
the church interiors with steel trusses and GI roof.
How to get to Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna?
It's a jeepney ride away from Laguna's capital town of Sta. Cruz. You need to ride an HM Transport bus (fare: P148.50)on EDSA, Cubao or Green Star Express bus (fare: P140.20) on Taft Avenue, Pasay City near LRT Buendia, alight in Sta. Cruz then ride a Siniloan-bound jeepney. Request the driver to drop you off in Longos "Loob" else you walk from Exotik restaurant to the church.
Related Posts:
Laguna Visita Iglesia Itinerary
Exotik Restaurant
Built circa 1669 and like most churches in Laguna, it's also founded by the Franciscans.
There's another two other Catholic churches in Kalayaan town, the other first, a new one, in barangay San Juan (Kalayaan's "capital") and another in San Antonio up in the mountains of the Sierra Madre (that's never visited by Tutubi and always teased by his father about it as one of the few places he reached that Tutubi wasn't able to so far, besides Tiwi, Albay)
the belfry of the old stone churchWhat's sad about this church though is that only the stone facade is quite preserved (quite, because of that eyesore on the church door above the arch) with the very visible use of galvanized iron for it's roof and steel trusses.
the church interiors with steel trusses and GI roof. How to get to Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna?
It's a jeepney ride away from Laguna's capital town of Sta. Cruz. You need to ride an HM Transport bus (fare: P148.50)on EDSA, Cubao or Green Star Express bus (fare: P140.20) on Taft Avenue, Pasay City near LRT Buendia, alight in Sta. Cruz then ride a Siniloan-bound jeepney. Request the driver to drop you off in Longos "Loob" else you walk from Exotik restaurant to the church.
Related Posts:
Laguna Visita Iglesia Itinerary
Exotik Restaurant
Citylink Bus to Eastwood City, Libis, Newport City and NAIA Terminal 3 via C5
The only bus complany plying the less traffic prone C5, Citylink buses serve the transportation needs of Megaworld-developed "mini-cities" of Eastwood and Newport (in front of NAIA Terminal 3).
Herewith is the information Tutubi gave to a friend who for months now shuttles everyday from Libis to her office in Newport City.
Citylink Business Class
Route: Eastwood City, McKinley Hill to Newport City-NAIA 3
Trip Schedules: 6am to 11am, 4pm to 7pm
Bus fare from Libis to Newport City is P38.00
Citylink Bus route and stops:
Eastwood
Green meadows
Ortigas
Julia Vargas
Valle Verde
Shaw Boulevard
Kalayaan
Global City
Fort Bonifacio - Petron
McKinley Hill (C-5)
Heritage
FTI - Commando
South Expressway (SLEX)
East Point
Villamor Airbase
NAIA3
Newport City (Resorts World Manila, Maxims Hotel etc)
Citylink Coach Services
Contact Number: 812 7472
Terminal: McKinley Hill, Taguig City
Citylink also serves the Ayala Avenue - EDSA - McKinley Hill commuters (going to the British Embassy in McKinley Hill). You may call their published telephone number for more information. (Route map to be added later).
possible entry: how to get to Libis, Quezon City, Commute to Eastwood City, How to get to Resorts World Manila, How to get to Newport City
Herewith is the information Tutubi gave to a friend who for months now shuttles everyday from Libis to her office in Newport City.
Citylink Business Class
Route: Eastwood City, McKinley Hill to Newport City-NAIA 3
Trip Schedules: 6am to 11am, 4pm to 7pm
Bus fare from Libis to Newport City is P38.00
Citylink Bus route and stops:
Eastwood
Green meadows
Ortigas
Julia Vargas
Valle Verde
Shaw Boulevard
Kalayaan
Global City
Fort Bonifacio - Petron
McKinley Hill (C-5)
Heritage
FTI - Commando
South Expressway (SLEX)
East Point
Villamor Airbase
NAIA3
Newport City (Resorts World Manila, Maxims Hotel etc)
Citylink Coach Services
Contact Number: 812 7472
Terminal: McKinley Hill, Taguig City
Citylink also serves the Ayala Avenue - EDSA - McKinley Hill commuters (going to the British Embassy in McKinley Hill). You may call their published telephone number for more information. (Route map to be added later).
possible entry: how to get to Libis, Quezon City, Commute to Eastwood City, How to get to Resorts World Manila, How to get to Newport City
21 September 2010
How to Get to Sonya's Garden: Map, Commute and Driving Directions
As confirmed by a friend of Tutubi who went to Sonya's Garden (Sonya's Country Bed and Breakfast) some time ago, here's information on how to get to Sonia's Garden near Tagaytay for people taking public transportation plus "driving directions to Sonya's Garden" for those lucky enough to be at the convenience of their own vehicles.
Important Note: make a reservation at Sonya's garden before actually going there, you may call or text Sonya's garden contact number at +63.917.532.9097 or +63.917.533.5140 or email info@sonyasgarden.com
How to get to Sonya's Garden:
Firt, look for appropriate buses to Tagaytay or Nasugbu on the How to Get to Tagaytay post then follow directions below.
Commute to Sonya's Garden is easy though with three rides: a bus, a jeepney and a tricycle ride. First ride a Bus to Tagaytay or Nasugbu, Batangas and request the conductor to drop you off at Alfonso Crossing on the highway. Transfer to a jeepney to take you to Buck Estate then ride a tricycle to Sonya's Garden. You can request the tricycle driver to fetch you at an appointed time to avoid the hassle of waiting for one on your return trip. (Current fares not available due to memory gap of Tutubi's friend)
If you are already touring Tagaytay, you can ride jeepneys that pass by Buck Estate then transfer to a trike to Sonya's Country Bed and Breakfast.
Driving Directions to Sonya's Garden:
According to Sonya's Garden's official website: "From South Superhighway
exit Santa Rosa and turn right towards Tagaytay. Upon reaching main
Aguinaldo highway, turn right toward Nasugbu, Batangas. Go past Tagaytay
Rotonda and proceed for 10km. After Splendido Golf course and Sunrise
Hill make a right turn on the Buck Estate. Drive for 2km and watch out
for Sonya's on the left side. Use the first gate and drive towards the
end of the driveway and make a right towards parking lot."
How to commute to Sonya's garden Tagaytay, Sonya's Garden hotline, contact
number, reservation
Important Note: make a reservation at Sonya's garden before actually going there, you may call or text Sonya's garden contact number at +63.917.532.9097 or +63.917.533.5140 or email info@sonyasgarden.com
How to get to Sonya's Garden:
Firt, look for appropriate buses to Tagaytay or Nasugbu on the How to Get to Tagaytay post then follow directions below.
Commute to Sonya's Garden is easy though with three rides: a bus, a jeepney and a tricycle ride. First ride a Bus to Tagaytay or Nasugbu, Batangas and request the conductor to drop you off at Alfonso Crossing on the highway. Transfer to a jeepney to take you to Buck Estate then ride a tricycle to Sonya's Garden. You can request the tricycle driver to fetch you at an appointed time to avoid the hassle of waiting for one on your return trip. (Current fares not available due to memory gap of Tutubi's friend)
If you are already touring Tagaytay, you can ride jeepneys that pass by Buck Estate then transfer to a trike to Sonya's Country Bed and Breakfast.
Driving Directions to Sonya's Garden:
According to Sonya's Garden's official website: "From South Superhighway
exit Santa Rosa and turn right towards Tagaytay. Upon reaching main
Aguinaldo highway, turn right toward Nasugbu, Batangas. Go past Tagaytay
Rotonda and proceed for 10km. After Splendido Golf course and Sunrise
Hill make a right turn on the Buck Estate. Drive for 2km and watch out
for Sonya's on the left side. Use the first gate and drive towards the
end of the driveway and make a right towards parking lot."
How to commute to Sonya's garden Tagaytay, Sonya's Garden hotline, contact
number, reservation
19 September 2010
Philippine Airlines' Mabuhay Miles Rewards is No Longer Rewarding
Have you taken Philippine Airlines recently and looked at your Mabuhay Miles earned? Tutubi did took PAL on his recent trip to Cebu but only updated his Mabuhay Miles account to reflect the trip's earned miles and this is what he discovered.
In June 2008, more than 2 years ago, Tutubi took the Manila - Cebu - Manila via PAL earned him 349 miles earned for each way. His recent Manila - Cebu - Manila only earned him 87 miles i.e. one fourth of the 349 miles for the same trip two years ago.
There are missing flights here, one's the Manila - KL (malaysia) flight he took in 2004, "sayang" but he forgot to claim and redeem his miles back then, plus his first airplane ride in 2002
PAL must really be in hard times, Tutubi used to think PAL means Plane Always Late, replaced by Pilots Already Left then the most recent notice of strike of flight attendants that can ground PAL's operations to a halt, sending another very bad signal to the international tourism and business community.
Anyway, Tutubi's just monitoring his Mabuhay Miles earned but does not have the intention to redeem them due to the simple fact that buying promo tickets is way much cheaper than paying taxes in redeeming free flights. He wanted to get the Mabuhay Miles card just so he can use the Mabuhay lounge at NAIA Terminal 2 (The Centennial Terminal used exclusively by PAL. There's also free wifi Internet at NAIA Terminal 2 that he doesn't need due to his preference for Sun Broadband and/or Globe Tattoo)
Tutubi has some expiring miles, but not enought to merit the attention of people buying airline miles in exchange for cash.
Related Posts:
Philippine Airlines Photo Contest
Overnight Parking at NAIA Terminal 2
Hotels near NAIA Terminal 2
NAIA Terminal Fees
In June 2008, more than 2 years ago, Tutubi took the Manila - Cebu - Manila via PAL earned him 349 miles earned for each way. His recent Manila - Cebu - Manila only earned him 87 miles i.e. one fourth of the 349 miles for the same trip two years ago.
There are missing flights here, one's the Manila - KL (malaysia) flight he took in 2004, "sayang" but he forgot to claim and redeem his miles back then, plus his first airplane ride in 2002PAL must really be in hard times, Tutubi used to think PAL means Plane Always Late, replaced by Pilots Already Left then the most recent notice of strike of flight attendants that can ground PAL's operations to a halt, sending another very bad signal to the international tourism and business community.
Anyway, Tutubi's just monitoring his Mabuhay Miles earned but does not have the intention to redeem them due to the simple fact that buying promo tickets is way much cheaper than paying taxes in redeeming free flights. He wanted to get the Mabuhay Miles card just so he can use the Mabuhay lounge at NAIA Terminal 2 (The Centennial Terminal used exclusively by PAL. There's also free wifi Internet at NAIA Terminal 2 that he doesn't need due to his preference for Sun Broadband and/or Globe Tattoo)
Tutubi has some expiring miles, but not enought to merit the attention of people buying airline miles in exchange for cash.
Related Posts:
Philippine Airlines Photo Contest
Overnight Parking at NAIA Terminal 2
Hotels near NAIA Terminal 2
NAIA Terminal Fees
16 September 2010
Forgotten History: Battle of Mabitac (Laguna)
One of those virtually unknown victories of the Filipinos against the vastly superior invading army of the Americans (the others were the Battle of Paye (San Mateo Rizal), Battle of Catubig (Samar), Battle of Makahambus Hill (Cagayan de Oro), Battle of Pulang Lupa (Marinduque) that occurred on September 17, 1900 at the village of Mabitac, then a barrio of the town of Siniloan.
Tutubi stumbled on the colorful tableau, located near the Mabitac Church (Our Lady of Candelaria Parish Church), depicting the battle quite some time ago but posted the photos just now in time for the 110th anniversary of the encounter.
It was here where Filipino soldiers, who used mastery of terrain and employed guerilla tactics and under the leadership of Gen. Juan Cailles and Lt. Col. Fidel Sario, held back a contingent of soldiers under Col. Benjamin Cheatham upon orders of Gen. Henry Lawton. The Americans suffered numerous casualties even if supported by a Gatling gun-armed gun boat in Laguna de Bay.
In the aftermath of the battle, Gen. Cailles, in contrast to American propaganda that he was a barbaric and murderous man, allowed Col. Cheatham to retrieve the bodies of slain American soldiers, in contrast to the disrespect the victorious Americans did to the dead bodies of Gen. Gregorio Del Pilar after the bloody Battle of Tirad Pass.
This post is written in memory of forgotten heroes of the Philippine-American War (formerly and erroneously called the Philippine Insurrection against the United States of America), not just the leaders but the hundreds of those killed, wounded, or suffered at the senseless war that befell these islands called the Philippines, long before Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
You'll always be remembered!
---
Battle of Mabitac Historical Figures:
American Side:
Gen. Henry Ware Lawton: Then a captain, was one of those responsible for the surrender of the Apache Indian warrior Geronimo. It's such an ironic twist of fate that as he was instrumental in capturing Apache Indian Geronimo, yet he died from sniper fire by a sharpshooter under the command of Gen. Licerio Geronimo during the Battle of Paye in San Mateo, Morong (now called province of Rizal). The City of Lawton, Oklahoma and the former name of Liwasang Bonifacio, Plaza Lawton, bear his name.
Col. Benjamin Cheatham: later served as a general during World War I in Europe, rose to that rank of Major General. Died in 1944 and buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Filipino Side:
Gen. Juan Cailles: originally from Nasugbu, Batangas from a Filipino father and mother of Indian descent, leader of revolutionary forces in Laguna during the Philippine-American War later appointed by Aguinaldo as military governor of Laguna, served as governor of Laguna where he served multiple, non-contiguous terms and appointed representative of Mountain Province in the Philippine Legislature. Died of heart attack in 1951.
Lt. Col. Fidel Sario: no confirmation yet if indeed a native of Paete, Laguna with one of major street named after him. Died from bullet wounds incurred during the Battle of Mabitac. Waiting for more information from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Tutubi stumbled on the colorful tableau, located near the Mabitac Church (Our Lady of Candelaria Parish Church), depicting the battle quite some time ago but posted the photos just now in time for the 110th anniversary of the encounter.
It was here where Filipino soldiers, who used mastery of terrain and employed guerilla tactics and under the leadership of Gen. Juan Cailles and Lt. Col. Fidel Sario, held back a contingent of soldiers under Col. Benjamin Cheatham upon orders of Gen. Henry Lawton. The Americans suffered numerous casualties even if supported by a Gatling gun-armed gun boat in Laguna de Bay.
In the aftermath of the battle, Gen. Cailles, in contrast to American propaganda that he was a barbaric and murderous man, allowed Col. Cheatham to retrieve the bodies of slain American soldiers, in contrast to the disrespect the victorious Americans did to the dead bodies of Gen. Gregorio Del Pilar after the bloody Battle of Tirad Pass.
This post is written in memory of forgotten heroes of the Philippine-American War (formerly and erroneously called the Philippine Insurrection against the United States of America), not just the leaders but the hundreds of those killed, wounded, or suffered at the senseless war that befell these islands called the Philippines, long before Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
You'll always be remembered!
---
Battle of Mabitac Historical Figures:
American Side:
Gen. Henry Ware Lawton: Then a captain, was one of those responsible for the surrender of the Apache Indian warrior Geronimo. It's such an ironic twist of fate that as he was instrumental in capturing Apache Indian Geronimo, yet he died from sniper fire by a sharpshooter under the command of Gen. Licerio Geronimo during the Battle of Paye in San Mateo, Morong (now called province of Rizal). The City of Lawton, Oklahoma and the former name of Liwasang Bonifacio, Plaza Lawton, bear his name.
Col. Benjamin Cheatham: later served as a general during World War I in Europe, rose to that rank of Major General. Died in 1944 and buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Filipino Side:
Gen. Juan Cailles: originally from Nasugbu, Batangas from a Filipino father and mother of Indian descent, leader of revolutionary forces in Laguna during the Philippine-American War later appointed by Aguinaldo as military governor of Laguna, served as governor of Laguna where he served multiple, non-contiguous terms and appointed representative of Mountain Province in the Philippine Legislature. Died of heart attack in 1951.
Lt. Col. Fidel Sario: no confirmation yet if indeed a native of Paete, Laguna with one of major street named after him. Died from bullet wounds incurred during the Battle of Mabitac. Waiting for more information from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Bañamos Festival, Los Baños, Laguna Schedule and Traffic Warning
For the simple reason that Tutubi's warning some people intending to travel to the fourth district of Laguna of the expected heavy traffic on the highway of Los Banos.
Bañamos festival celebrates the hot spring baths of Los Baños (means The Baths) coinciding with the founding anniversary of the town of Los Banos featuring science discovery exhibit, beauty pageant, street dancing competition and Makiling Quest Adventure Race.
HIGHLIGHTS AND SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:
September 17: BAILAMOS (dance contest)
September 18 - Civic Parade, Mosikohan and Paper Mache flaots at the Freedom Park in UPLB
September 19 - Padyak ELBI biking the Los Baños Terrain
Tutubi's going home to Paete tomorrow but intends to commute to Paete via the scenic Rizal route: EDSA Crossing - Tanay, Tanay - Siniloan, and Siniloan to Paete jeepney routes that he has not taken for years now just to avoid traffic in Calamba and Los Banos.
Bañamos festival celebrates the hot spring baths of Los Baños (means The Baths) coinciding with the founding anniversary of the town of Los Banos featuring science discovery exhibit, beauty pageant, street dancing competition and Makiling Quest Adventure Race.
HIGHLIGHTS AND SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:
September 17: BAILAMOS (dance contest)
September 18 - Civic Parade, Mosikohan and Paper Mache flaots at the Freedom Park in UPLB
September 19 - Padyak ELBI biking the Los Baños Terrain
Tutubi's going home to Paete tomorrow but intends to commute to Paete via the scenic Rizal route: EDSA Crossing - Tanay, Tanay - Siniloan, and Siniloan to Paete jeepney routes that he has not taken for years now just to avoid traffic in Calamba and Los Banos.
14 September 2010
Boat Ride Tour of Lake Caliraya and Lumot
For those looking for a tour of the twin lakes of Caliraya and Lumot, there are boat rentals offered near the road side where Caliraya Lake Resort (Caliraya Recreation Center) can be seen.
Boat rental rate is P1,200/hour; price is P1,800.00/hour if you rent it from Caliraya Recreation Center (Caliraya Lake Resort). There's a sign there saying it's Caliraya Country Club but it didn't seem to be a formal country club, no website nor contact number and email address information for reservations.
a fisherman in Lake Lumot
Why are there only two pictures? Tutubi didn't join his family on the boat ride and remained instead with Tutubi, Jr. in the car. If you're looking for more pictures, you can check out THIS post.
Related Posts:
Pagsanjan Falls Tour
Japanese Garden
Caliraya Lake Tour
Green Star Express
Exotic Restaurant
Boat rental rate is P1,200/hour; price is P1,800.00/hour if you rent it from Caliraya Recreation Center (Caliraya Lake Resort). There's a sign there saying it's Caliraya Country Club but it didn't seem to be a formal country club, no website nor contact number and email address information for reservations.
a fisherman in Lake LumotWhy are there only two pictures? Tutubi didn't join his family on the boat ride and remained instead with Tutubi, Jr. in the car. If you're looking for more pictures, you can check out THIS post.
Related Posts:
Pagsanjan Falls Tour
Japanese Garden
Caliraya Lake Tour
Green Star Express
Exotic Restaurant
07 September 2010
The "Evergreen" Japanese Garden in Cavinti, Laguna
Built in 1978 by the government of Japan and frequented by little Tutubi of the 80s when his father was working at the National Power Corporation's hydro power plant project, the Japanese Garden, located near the shores of Caliraya Lake is a popular picnic place and photography location shoots (e.g. prenups and probably a garden wedding venue).
On entering the place, you'll notice towering trees (a delightful treat to biologists and nature lovers alike) and wide spaces of green grass ideal as picnic areas. There are also cottages (no rental fees), restrooms and a snack counter, a man-made lagoon (that used to have kois and goldfish years ago). For those going on a picnic, food is allowed to be taken in but be sure to not leave your trash behind (as it should always be).
the man-made lagoon that used to be populated with kois with torii-like bridge that connects to the long stairway
it's a walk in the park for this kid and 2 ladies
the hilltop provides a good photo opportunity much better if there's a blue sky. the top of the hill offers a great vantage point for viewing the twin lakes of Caliraya and Lake Lumot while savoring country fresh air
the view of Lake Caliraya on the hilltop
Inside the Japanese Garden is a shrine constructed by Philippine-Japan Friendship Society in memory of the Japanese soldiers who perished in the battle during World War II between the Japanese and Filipino-American troops. (Tutubi overheard a local mentioning Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita held camp at the garden wile on another occasion also heard Yamashita and the fabled Yamashita Treasures were buried there. Such rumors still persists!
the Japanese memorial to fallen soldiers of World War II...no mention of Gen. Yamashita (as Tutubi can recognize Yamashita in Nihongo/Kanji if it's written on the historical markers)
In truth, Gen. Yamashita used the mountains of the Cordilleras to defend against the combined forces of the Americans and Filipinos (and some Australians though largely ignored by history); surrendered in the town of Kiangan, Ifugao; tried by a kangaroo court of Gen. MacArthur, convicted for war crimes he didn't commit, hanged and buried somewhere in Los Banos, Laguna near UPLB and Bureau of Plant Industry. The site is now called Homma-Yamashita Shrine and is the subject of a future Tutubi exploration. The "Tiger of Malaya" is now enshrined at the infamous Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo.
Lastly, this Japanese garden won't be complete without the iconic torii (鳥居・鳥栖・鶏栖)-- the traditional Japanese gate common in Shinto Shrines and Japanese Buddhist temples.
one of two torii inside the Japanese Garden
---
For those wishing to visit the Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden Entrance Fee:
P10.00 for adults (including employees of NAPOCOR)
P5.00 for children
How to get to Japanese Garden, Cavinti, Laguna:
From Quezon City, the fastest route to Japanese Garden is via Rizal province and Manila East Road that'll take you to breathtaking views of Rizal province's "bitukang manok,"the city of Antipolo (via Sumulong Highway) and towns of Teresa, Morong, Baras, Tanay, Pililla, and the Laguna towns of Mabitac, Famy, Siniloan, Pangil, Pakil, Paete, Kalayaan and Lumban. In Lumban, you need to turn left when you see the kilometer 95 marker then go up Caliraya-Cavinti Road where Japanese Garden is located. Travel time via this route is around 3 hours from Trinoma/SM City North EDSA.
From Makati, you can take SLEX Calamba exit then turn right at Calamba Crossing (unless you know the bypass road in Real up to Halang to avoid traffic) then drive all the way to Lumban to kilometer 95 marker. Follow the upward road til you see the Japanese Garden sign to your right.
Commute to Japanese Garden? It's not really easy and reliable but possible to get there via Sta. Cruz, Laguna where you can ride jeepneys plying the Sta. Cruz - Lumot route (look for the signboard Lumot, refers to Lake Lumot and Lumot, Cavinti)
Other attraction: Lake Caliraya, Lumot Lake and the so called Magnetic Hill near the kilometer 98 marker. The Japanese Garden is said to be the drop off point for the one hour trek to the secluded Twin Falls of Cavinti but the waterfalls but is located in a private property so no effort is made to verify the claims of locals.
Related Posts:
Caliraya Lake Resort
Bus to Sta. Cruz, Laguna
Exotikk Restaurant
On entering the place, you'll notice towering trees (a delightful treat to biologists and nature lovers alike) and wide spaces of green grass ideal as picnic areas. There are also cottages (no rental fees), restrooms and a snack counter, a man-made lagoon (that used to have kois and goldfish years ago). For those going on a picnic, food is allowed to be taken in but be sure to not leave your trash behind (as it should always be).
the man-made lagoon that used to be populated with kois with torii-like bridge that connects to the long stairway
it's a walk in the park for this kid and 2 ladies
the hilltop provides a good photo opportunity much better if there's a blue sky. the top of the hill offers a great vantage point for viewing the twin lakes of Caliraya and Lake Lumot while savoring country fresh air
the view of Lake Caliraya on the hilltopInside the Japanese Garden is a shrine constructed by Philippine-Japan Friendship Society in memory of the Japanese soldiers who perished in the battle during World War II between the Japanese and Filipino-American troops. (Tutubi overheard a local mentioning Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita held camp at the garden wile on another occasion also heard Yamashita and the fabled Yamashita Treasures were buried there. Such rumors still persists!
the Japanese memorial to fallen soldiers of World War II...no mention of Gen. Yamashita (as Tutubi can recognize Yamashita in Nihongo/Kanji if it's written on the historical markers)In truth, Gen. Yamashita used the mountains of the Cordilleras to defend against the combined forces of the Americans and Filipinos (and some Australians though largely ignored by history); surrendered in the town of Kiangan, Ifugao; tried by a kangaroo court of Gen. MacArthur, convicted for war crimes he didn't commit, hanged and buried somewhere in Los Banos, Laguna near UPLB and Bureau of Plant Industry. The site is now called Homma-Yamashita Shrine and is the subject of a future Tutubi exploration. The "Tiger of Malaya" is now enshrined at the infamous Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo.
Lastly, this Japanese garden won't be complete without the iconic torii (鳥居・鳥栖・鶏栖)-- the traditional Japanese gate common in Shinto Shrines and Japanese Buddhist temples.
one of two torii inside the Japanese Garden ---
For those wishing to visit the Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden Entrance Fee:
P10.00 for adults (including employees of NAPOCOR)
P5.00 for children
How to get to Japanese Garden, Cavinti, Laguna:
From Quezon City, the fastest route to Japanese Garden is via Rizal province and Manila East Road that'll take you to breathtaking views of Rizal province's "bitukang manok,"the city of Antipolo (via Sumulong Highway) and towns of Teresa, Morong, Baras, Tanay, Pililla, and the Laguna towns of Mabitac, Famy, Siniloan, Pangil, Pakil, Paete, Kalayaan and Lumban. In Lumban, you need to turn left when you see the kilometer 95 marker then go up Caliraya-Cavinti Road where Japanese Garden is located. Travel time via this route is around 3 hours from Trinoma/SM City North EDSA.
From Makati, you can take SLEX Calamba exit then turn right at Calamba Crossing (unless you know the bypass road in Real up to Halang to avoid traffic) then drive all the way to Lumban to kilometer 95 marker. Follow the upward road til you see the Japanese Garden sign to your right.
Commute to Japanese Garden? It's not really easy and reliable but possible to get there via Sta. Cruz, Laguna where you can ride jeepneys plying the Sta. Cruz - Lumot route (look for the signboard Lumot, refers to Lake Lumot and Lumot, Cavinti)
Other attraction: Lake Caliraya, Lumot Lake and the so called Magnetic Hill near the kilometer 98 marker. The Japanese Garden is said to be the drop off point for the one hour trek to the secluded Twin Falls of Cavinti but the waterfalls but is located in a private property so no effort is made to verify the claims of locals.
Related Posts:
Caliraya Lake Resort
Bus to Sta. Cruz, Laguna
Exotikk Restaurant
01 September 2010
Of Copyright and PAL Photo Contest
As an avid traveler and frustrated photographer who can take pictures slightly better than ordinary people, Tutubi wanted just a little bit of recognition by having three wishes: that his pictures be seen in print publications like travel and airline in-flight magazines, be featured on newspapers and win at least a photography contest even with a "tsamba" shot as claim to "fame."
The first two of his three wishes already came true - two of his pictures already made it to Cebu Smile, the in-flight magazine of Cebu Pacific (Of course you didn't notice it unless you know Tutubi's real name) and this blog was already featured quite some time ago on Manila Bulletin's Blog-o-rama.
The third one, winning a photo contest, is another thing for most photo contests here have unfair rules that strip photographers of their rights to their artistic creations.
Take the case of the latest PAL Photo Contest with rules that stipulate these unfair terms and condition:
Free use of photo entries? Or are they building a large stockpile of stock images for free use?
"13. All participants understand and agree that Philippine Airlines shall have the right to use any photo or image submitted as entry in the contest for marketing and promotional purposes in all media, advertising, promotion and publicity campaign or exhibition without additional compensation"
Copyright now belongs to Philippine Airlines even for non-winning entries? That means even the photographer can't use his own works for other purposes
"16. By entering the contest and submitting his/her entry/ies, each participant agrees and acknowledges that PAL is permitted to receive the photograph or image entry/ies, and that he/she transfers and turns over to Philippine Airlines the full ownership of the copyright to the photos or images."
Lately, Tutubi's been dabbling on intellectual property rights, that's why he's advocating fair use of all submitted entries in photography contests. The second rule is really, really unfair as you relinquish your rights to your photo upon submission. For it to be fair, the copyright shall still be with the photographer, with the unrestricted use of all photos solely for marketing purposes of the photo contest itself.
How to join the PAL Photo Contest and be stripped of your rights? Read the fine print instructions (the catch) and be a willing victim of a rights-grabbing contest should you choose to join. Some (or many) people will say "it's their contest, you're not being forced to join" and that's just the kind of attitude why this country is in the state that it is now: "I'm not affected by it so why should I bother?"
If you really don't care about your rights as a photographer, imagine if your entry didn't make it in the finals but ended up featured on a billboard on EDSA or SLEX without just compensation nor proper acknowledgment, how would you feel?
It's not an imagined scenario for it actually happened to a poor guy who joined a photography contest of a well-known real estate company who could only gnash his teeth in disbelief. He can't bill the company who used his non-winning photo on a billboard for the rules of the photography contest were similar to those of Philippine Airlines-- you totally relinquish your rights to your photo upon submission and can use it without acknowledgment nor compensation even if it's a non-winning entry.
If you're still bent on joining the contest, go ahead, it's your right and they didn't force you. Just don't blame Tutubi should you find yourself in the poor guy's situation.
You've been forewarned!
The first two of his three wishes already came true - two of his pictures already made it to Cebu Smile, the in-flight magazine of Cebu Pacific (Of course you didn't notice it unless you know Tutubi's real name) and this blog was already featured quite some time ago on Manila Bulletin's Blog-o-rama.
The third one, winning a photo contest, is another thing for most photo contests here have unfair rules that strip photographers of their rights to their artistic creations.
Take the case of the latest PAL Photo Contest with rules that stipulate these unfair terms and condition:
Free use of photo entries? Or are they building a large stockpile of stock images for free use?
"13. All participants understand and agree that Philippine Airlines shall have the right to use any photo or image submitted as entry in the contest for marketing and promotional purposes in all media, advertising, promotion and publicity campaign or exhibition without additional compensation"
Copyright now belongs to Philippine Airlines even for non-winning entries? That means even the photographer can't use his own works for other purposes
"16. By entering the contest and submitting his/her entry/ies, each participant agrees and acknowledges that PAL is permitted to receive the photograph or image entry/ies, and that he/she transfers and turns over to Philippine Airlines the full ownership of the copyright to the photos or images."
Lately, Tutubi's been dabbling on intellectual property rights, that's why he's advocating fair use of all submitted entries in photography contests. The second rule is really, really unfair as you relinquish your rights to your photo upon submission. For it to be fair, the copyright shall still be with the photographer, with the unrestricted use of all photos solely for marketing purposes of the photo contest itself.
How to join the PAL Photo Contest and be stripped of your rights? Read the fine print instructions (the catch) and be a willing victim of a rights-grabbing contest should you choose to join. Some (or many) people will say "it's their contest, you're not being forced to join" and that's just the kind of attitude why this country is in the state that it is now: "I'm not affected by it so why should I bother?"
If you really don't care about your rights as a photographer, imagine if your entry didn't make it in the finals but ended up featured on a billboard on EDSA or SLEX without just compensation nor proper acknowledgment, how would you feel?
It's not an imagined scenario for it actually happened to a poor guy who joined a photography contest of a well-known real estate company who could only gnash his teeth in disbelief. He can't bill the company who used his non-winning photo on a billboard for the rules of the photography contest were similar to those of Philippine Airlines-- you totally relinquish your rights to your photo upon submission and can use it without acknowledgment nor compensation even if it's a non-winning entry.
If you're still bent on joining the contest, go ahead, it's your right and they didn't force you. Just don't blame Tutubi should you find yourself in the poor guy's situation.
You've been forewarned!