North Visita Iglesia: Ilocos Sur Churches Route Suggestions
28 March 2011
For those planning to go the northbound route to escape the searing summer sun of Manila to celebrate Holy Week, particularly Holy Thursday when Visita Iglesia practice of visiting seven churches, herewith is a suggested Visita Iglesia route and itinerary up north for your reference
From Manila going North to Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, all along or near the National Highway:
1. Tagudin Church, visit also the nearby sundials
2. Sta. Cruz Church (saw by Tutubi but didn't take photo)
3. Sta. Lucia Church
4. Candon Cathedral (St. John Sahagun Parish), buy candon calamay and chichacorn at the pasalubong stalls. (GPS Coordinates: N17° 11.603 E120° 26.93)
Candon Church's colorful interior
5. Santiago Church (St. James Parish)
6. San Esteban Church
7. Sta. Maria Church --- not to be missed due to it's being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Church, of of four Baroque Churches of the Philippines of outstanding universal value.
the church bell tower a few feet away from the main church structure
8. Narvacan Church
9. Santa Church
10. Bantay Church (San Agustin Church), picturesque belfry
the facade of San Agustin, Bantay, with a hint of romanesque architecture
11. St. Paul Cathedral and Simbaan a Bassit of Vigan City
If you're going to Pagudpud, don't forget to drop by Paoay Church, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Laoag Cathedral with the sinking belltower. You may also drop by churches of La Union, particularly the Agoo Cathedral.
Others not on Tutubi's list of Ilocos Sur catholic churches:
Alilem, Banayoyo, Burgos, Cabugao, Caoayan, Cervantes, Galimuyod, Gregorio del Pilar (Concepcion), Lidlidda, Magsingal, Nagbukel, Narvacan, Quirino (Angaki), Salcedo (Baugen), San Emilio, San Ildefonso, San Juan (Lapog), San Vicente, Santa Catalina, Santo Domingo, Sigay, Sinait, Sugpon and Suyo
From Manila going North to Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, all along or near the National Highway:
1. Tagudin Church, visit also the nearby sundials
2. Sta. Cruz Church (saw by Tutubi but didn't take photo)
3. Sta. Lucia Church
4. Candon Cathedral (St. John Sahagun Parish), buy candon calamay and chichacorn at the pasalubong stalls. (GPS Coordinates: N17° 11.603 E120° 26.93)
Candon Church's colorful interior5. Santiago Church (St. James Parish)
6. San Esteban Church
7. Sta. Maria Church --- not to be missed due to it's being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Church, of of four Baroque Churches of the Philippines of outstanding universal value.
the church bell tower a few feet away from the main church structure8. Narvacan Church
9. Santa Church
10. Bantay Church (San Agustin Church), picturesque belfry
the facade of San Agustin, Bantay, with a hint of romanesque architecture11. St. Paul Cathedral and Simbaan a Bassit of Vigan City
If you're going to Pagudpud, don't forget to drop by Paoay Church, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Laoag Cathedral with the sinking belltower. You may also drop by churches of La Union, particularly the Agoo Cathedral.
Others not on Tutubi's list of Ilocos Sur catholic churches:
Alilem, Banayoyo, Burgos, Cabugao, Caoayan, Cervantes, Galimuyod, Gregorio del Pilar (Concepcion), Lidlidda, Magsingal, Nagbukel, Narvacan, Quirino (Angaki), Salcedo (Baugen), San Emilio, San Ildefonso, San Juan (Lapog), San Vicente, Santa Catalina, Santo Domingo, Sigay, Sinait, Sugpon and Suyo
Labels: Churches, Holy Week, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Visita Iglesia
posted by GingGoy @ 8:41 PM,
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The "Lost" Ruins of Bateria Watchtower, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
26 March 2011
Watch towers line the vast coastline of the archipelago to act as guard posts against foreign invaders, pirates and slave traders of yore. These watchtowers now serve no purpose but reminds people of their importance in protecting the coastal community. Watch towers in Ilocos Sur can be found in the towns of Santa, and in San Esteban's Barangay Apatot and Bateria but Tutubi was only able to find the one featured in this post (he found, too, the ruins of another watchtower in La Union en route to Manila)
Tutubi's GPS in action in Ilocos Sur
Sought but was not found by Tutubi on his first try by just asking locals, on the second attempt, he used Wikimapia then inputted the coordinates to his Garmin nuvie GPS PDN (personal navigation device) that later guided him correctly to the "missing" watchtower in barangay Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur on his way from Vigan to Sta. Cruz.
In search of the Bateria watchtower, Tutubi was greeted with a stone structure that's almost completely obscured by a tree, built on the beachfront of Bateria, with Villa Bateria (some sort of beach resort), a pantalan where you can catch a great view of the sea, and a service road that leads to Apatot Beach and the surprisingly beautiful Sabangan Beach of Santiago Cove.
the watchtower seeks "shelter" from a tree that almost hides it completely from view from passersby, nearly missed again by Tutubi if not for his GPS.
bateria watchtower stands guard on the beach of Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur. here you can find locals taking a swim and using a bamboo raft
Tutubi didn't notice any historical marker near the supposedly "famous tourist spot" of Ilocos Sur. Seems too that the historical landmark is left on its own, where no sentries stand guard to look out for marauding pirates and slave traders to alert townspeople of the impending danger from the sea.
This place should be preserved by the locals if they can't find help from the local or national government.
---
Bateria Watchtower
Barangay Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°20'20"N 120°26'21"E
Tutubi's GPS in action in Ilocos SurSought but was not found by Tutubi on his first try by just asking locals, on the second attempt, he used Wikimapia then inputted the coordinates to his Garmin nuvie GPS PDN (personal navigation device) that later guided him correctly to the "missing" watchtower in barangay Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur on his way from Vigan to Sta. Cruz.
In search of the Bateria watchtower, Tutubi was greeted with a stone structure that's almost completely obscured by a tree, built on the beachfront of Bateria, with Villa Bateria (some sort of beach resort), a pantalan where you can catch a great view of the sea, and a service road that leads to Apatot Beach and the surprisingly beautiful Sabangan Beach of Santiago Cove.
the watchtower seeks "shelter" from a tree that almost hides it completely from view from passersby, nearly missed again by Tutubi if not for his GPS.
bateria watchtower stands guard on the beach of Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur. here you can find locals taking a swim and using a bamboo raftTutubi didn't notice any historical marker near the supposedly "famous tourist spot" of Ilocos Sur. Seems too that the historical landmark is left on its own, where no sentries stand guard to look out for marauding pirates and slave traders to alert townspeople of the impending danger from the sea.
This place should be preserved by the locals if they can't find help from the local or national government.
---
Bateria Watchtower
Barangay Bateria, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°20'20"N 120°26'21"E
Labels: Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Watchtowers
posted by GingGoy @ 8:36 PM,
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About the Weather: Tagaytay Colder than Baguio?
21 March 2011
Tutubi was in Tagaytay last week for a 3D/3N official business trip in the form of a convention at Taal Vista Hotel, the most prestigious hotel in Tagaytay. He was booked at the premier room with the best view of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake and yet he wasn't able to fully enjoy the facility due to his very busy schedule that made him wake up at 6am and sleep around 12mn.
He arrived in Tagaytay on Thursday night and had dinner at Pamana, his choice and answer when his boss asked him where he'd like to have dinner: Antonio's or Josephines, but he answered Pamana.
Anyway, it was windy and cold that made him shiver, even if he's used to cold places particularly datacenters.
His other friends at Taal Vista also commented that it's colder in Tagaytay than Baguio to which he partially agreed.
Though Tutubi visited Baguio thrice in two years, where he found it quite warm, a direct comparison of which is colder based on temperature is invalid because they're 1 and two years apart. In the words of the cliche of his officemates: it's not apples to apples comparison.
If Tutubi can be in two place at one time, to take temperature measurements, he can be more objective and not subjective.
Anyway, Tagaytay was hotter last Sunday when he was going home unlike the three preceeding days.
This is just a filler post, Tutubi knows Baguio is generally colder than Tagaytay, being on a higher altitude, but the wind in Tagaytay was quite unbearable when Tutubi was there, turned his bulalo to sebo in a matter of minutes, unlike the three times he was in Baguio. Note that at the same time in the Visayas, particularly Bohol and Leyte were experiencing heavy rains, due to wind convergence (per PAGASA) that brought floods and landslides.
He arrived in Tagaytay on Thursday night and had dinner at Pamana, his choice and answer when his boss asked him where he'd like to have dinner: Antonio's or Josephines, but he answered Pamana.
Anyway, it was windy and cold that made him shiver, even if he's used to cold places particularly datacenters.
His other friends at Taal Vista also commented that it's colder in Tagaytay than Baguio to which he partially agreed.
Though Tutubi visited Baguio thrice in two years, where he found it quite warm, a direct comparison of which is colder based on temperature is invalid because they're 1 and two years apart. In the words of the cliche of his officemates: it's not apples to apples comparison.
If Tutubi can be in two place at one time, to take temperature measurements, he can be more objective and not subjective.
Anyway, Tagaytay was hotter last Sunday when he was going home unlike the three preceeding days.
This is just a filler post, Tutubi knows Baguio is generally colder than Tagaytay, being on a higher altitude, but the wind in Tagaytay was quite unbearable when Tutubi was there, turned his bulalo to sebo in a matter of minutes, unlike the three times he was in Baguio. Note that at the same time in the Visayas, particularly Bohol and Leyte were experiencing heavy rains, due to wind convergence (per PAGASA) that brought floods and landslides.
posted by GingGoy @ 9:22 PM,
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Cordillera Inn: Vigan Hotel on Calle Crisologo
20 March 2011
The marker on the facade of the old house on Calle Crisologo says it's the Casa de Don Gaspar de Bartolome, now converted into a hotel, the Cordillera Inn, that's so strategically located on Vigan's famous cobblestone street.
On his second trip to Vigan, Tutubi stayed here, quite pricey for backpackers like him, but since being an official trip and within budget, he opted to stay against the earlier cheaper Green R Hotel besides looking for something new.
the staircase of Cordillera Inn, still has the look of the old mansion
Tutubi's twin-sharing room with two beds at PhP1,500.00/night
Cordillera Inn Vigan room rate: PhP1,500.00 twin sharing room.
with TV and hot and cold shower.
For families, Tutubi recommends the nearby Cordillera Family Inn with dormitory-type rooms for big families that come at PhP500.00/head, still not backpacker-rates but quite close though.
Complimentary breakfast: tapsilog, longsilog (vigan longganisa), bangus Meals price at PhP90.00)
Negatives (Review of Cordillera Inn):
Cash payment preferred, credit cards get a 3% charge (this is actually illegal and should be absorbed by Cordillera Inn as agreed with the credit card terminal provider, but it's tolerated, usual)
Secure parking inside the hotel is limited to just one car or two small vehicles, street parking on Plaridel Street (park your car at your own risk)
Cordillera Inn
Crisologo corner Gen. Luna, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: N17 34 19.8 E120 23 20.0
Contact number:
Official website:
(to be updated when available)
On his second trip to Vigan, Tutubi stayed here, quite pricey for backpackers like him, but since being an official trip and within budget, he opted to stay against the earlier cheaper Green R Hotel besides looking for something new.
the staircase of Cordillera Inn, still has the look of the old mansion
Tutubi's twin-sharing room with two beds at PhP1,500.00/nightCordillera Inn Vigan room rate: PhP1,500.00 twin sharing room.
with TV and hot and cold shower.
For families, Tutubi recommends the nearby Cordillera Family Inn with dormitory-type rooms for big families that come at PhP500.00/head, still not backpacker-rates but quite close though.
Complimentary breakfast: tapsilog, longsilog (vigan longganisa), bangus Meals price at PhP90.00)
Negatives (Review of Cordillera Inn):
Cash payment preferred, credit cards get a 3% charge (this is actually illegal and should be absorbed by Cordillera Inn as agreed with the credit card terminal provider, but it's tolerated, usual)
Secure parking inside the hotel is limited to just one car or two small vehicles, street parking on Plaridel Street (park your car at your own risk)
Cordillera Inn
Crisologo corner Gen. Luna, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: N17 34 19.8 E120 23 20.0
Contact number:
Official website:
(to be updated when available)
Labels: Accommodations, Hotels, Hotels and Resorts, Vigan Accommodations
posted by GingGoy @ 9:58 PM,
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Budget-Friendly Green R Hotel, Vigan, Ilocos Sur
On the first leg of his back-to-back trip to Vigan, Tutubi slept at Green R Hotel, as recommended by his friend to be cheap, affordable and budget-friendly.
Here's Tutubi take, however short, due to his short stay at the hotel located near Vigan Public Market, where he only slept for a few hours then went away to visit other gems of Ilocos Sur.
Tutubi's twin sharing room at Green R Hotel with his backpack in view. rooms quite small but is ok since it's a low-price hotel
Comments and Review of Green R Hotel, Vigan City:
Nice and clean rooms though the wall paints are peeling and need a fresh coat, but Tutubi is not picky, it being a cheap hotel already.
No heater or hot shower available. just Cold and Cold water...(tutubi can stand it as he's used to taking a cold shower in his hometown)
There are no elevators to the building, you need to use the stairs to get to your room on the third floor.
Cash payment only, no credit cards accepted. Pay on check in too.
Overnight parking is at the public parking area of Green R Hotel, just choose a spot where the security guard of the hotel can see it and inform the guard on duty to look after your precious car and keep your fingers crossed that he won't sleep on his job.
Green R Hotel, requires some touch up yet it's clean and with a tabo (laddle) and so is another recipient of Tutubi Tabo Award for beind friendly to Filipinos.
Green R Hotel
room rate: PhP 750.00 (quite cheap actually for a twin-sharing room)
COntact Number:
Official Website:
(to be completed once, again, Tutubi finds the brochure tucked somewhere in his bag)
Coordinates: N17 34 07.6 E120 23 03.3
Here's Tutubi take, however short, due to his short stay at the hotel located near Vigan Public Market, where he only slept for a few hours then went away to visit other gems of Ilocos Sur.
Tutubi's twin sharing room at Green R Hotel with his backpack in view. rooms quite small but is ok since it's a low-price hotelComments and Review of Green R Hotel, Vigan City:
Nice and clean rooms though the wall paints are peeling and need a fresh coat, but Tutubi is not picky, it being a cheap hotel already.
No heater or hot shower available. just Cold and Cold water...(tutubi can stand it as he's used to taking a cold shower in his hometown)
There are no elevators to the building, you need to use the stairs to get to your room on the third floor.
Cash payment only, no credit cards accepted. Pay on check in too.
Overnight parking is at the public parking area of Green R Hotel, just choose a spot where the security guard of the hotel can see it and inform the guard on duty to look after your precious car and keep your fingers crossed that he won't sleep on his job.
Green R Hotel, requires some touch up yet it's clean and with a tabo (laddle) and so is another recipient of Tutubi Tabo Award for beind friendly to Filipinos.
Green R Hotel
room rate: PhP 750.00 (quite cheap actually for a twin-sharing room)
COntact Number:
Official Website:
(to be completed once, again, Tutubi finds the brochure tucked somewhere in his bag)
Coordinates: N17 34 07.6 E120 23 03.3
Labels: Accommodations, Hotels, Hotels and Resorts, Vigan Accommodations
posted by GingGoy @ 8:54 PM,
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Bus from Vigan to Baguio via Naguilian Road
18 March 2011
Want to know how to get to Baguio from Vigan and back by public transportation? Tutubi's companion made the recent trip to baguio via Vigan and here's the information on this route.
Vigan to Baguio Bus fare: about PhP250.00
travel time: around 3 hours (at night) would probably be 5 or 6 hours during the day knowing the traffic on the Ilocos Sur to Bauan, La Union
bus route by Fariñas Transit and Partas Transport
(manila to baguio travel time is about 6 to 7 hours on normal days)
Bus terminals in Vigan are near the Vigan Public Market, a tricycle ride away from anywhere in the heritage city of Vigan.
Note: this post will be updated with the contact numbers and trip schedules (first and last trips) of Partas and Fariñas when Tutubi gets hold of his Vigan Tourism brochure he got from a "sleeping on the job" tourism officer...literally sleeping when Tutubi inquired at their office near Calle Crisologo
Vigan to Baguio Bus fare: about PhP250.00
travel time: around 3 hours (at night) would probably be 5 or 6 hours during the day knowing the traffic on the Ilocos Sur to Bauan, La Union
bus route by Fariñas Transit and Partas Transport
(manila to baguio travel time is about 6 to 7 hours on normal days)
Bus terminals in Vigan are near the Vigan Public Market, a tricycle ride away from anywhere in the heritage city of Vigan.
Note: this post will be updated with the contact numbers and trip schedules (first and last trips) of Partas and Fariñas when Tutubi gets hold of his Vigan Tourism brochure he got from a "sleeping on the job" tourism officer...literally sleeping when Tutubi inquired at their office near Calle Crisologo
Labels: Baguio City, Vigan
posted by GingGoy @ 8:53 PM,
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Ilocos Sur: Vigan's Hidden Garden Restaurant is a Secret No More!
16 March 2011
Tutubi seldom visits a place more than once unless he has to just to use the time to search for something new. He visited Vigan twice, just to check in at two hotels on two different occasions. The first at Green R Hotel and the second at Cordillera Inn on Calle Crisologo.
During his second visit, he got interested in a "secret" garden restaurant outside the city proper, called Hidden Garden in barangay Bulala. Right after checking in at Cordillera Inn, he thought of a light meal of Vigan Empanada not at the Empanadahan which is just a short walk away, but at the Hidden Garden restaurants.
Photos of Hidden Garden Restaurant in Vigan, Ilocos Sur (taken using Tutubi's borrowed iPhone 4 at around 5:30pm so it's getting dark already)
the native grotto inside Hidden Garden, what greets you after the front office going to the restaurant
garden with topiaries, plants and flowers and gardening implements, for sale, byt the way
The dining area with overhanging millionaires vine, near the Lover's Corner
After the Empanada Corner is a pathway to the Secret Garden, Tutubi was greeted by a swarm of mosquitoes here, all but natural for gardens, so be prepared with your mosquito repellants
Hidden Garden's native halo-halo (that Tutubi finds not so good yet not bad at all, gelatin, sweetened banana, sago, cheese, pinipig (rice crispies), wafer stick, ice cream and coconut milk)
So how did Tutubi rate/review Hidden Garden?
Location: far but within reach of the crowd, probably crowded on weekends
Ambiance: relaxing and natural with the garden setting. there's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine near the Lover's corner...for couples :P
Downside: swarm of mosquitoes greeted Tutubi when he tried to enter the garden with trees, only natural for a place, but Tutubi wasn't prepared so he stepped back. Besides, it's already getting dark so taking pictures is almost no use.
Price: empanada, the same at Vigan Empanadahan. others, quite reasonable considering it's location and romantic ambiance.
Customer Service: service was ok with no other people around. Tutubi tried to inquire about hoe to get there by sending a text message to their published contact number (on their official website with several telephone numbers). All he got was a "hu u?" reply and no real asnwer to his question. Hidden garden resutaurant owner should train his/her staff on how to courteously reply to inquiries and provide the requested answer.
others: there are plants and garden items on display and for sale. there's also a souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Overall: it deserves a second look, particularly since Tutubi went there for a only short time and ordered just two items on the menu. Tutubi would love to try out Ilocos Specialties and delicacies next time.
Hidden Garden Menu prices featuring Vigan Specialties:
Vigan Bagnet: PhP150.00
Vigan Longganiza: P150.00 (6 pcs)
Sinanglao: PhP130.00
Warek-warek: PhP130.00
Poqui-poqui (or poki-poki): PhP90.00
Dinengdeng PhP130.00
Igado PhP120.00
Pakbet with Bagnet: PhP100.00
Steam rice: P15.00
Garlic rice: PhP25.00
Filipino breakfast: PhP90.00 (longsilog, bangsilog, tapsilog)
Vigan Empanada: PhP45.00
Native Halo-halo: PhP75.00
Fresh fruit shakes at PhP80.00 - PhP100.00
Notes:
How to get to Hidden Garden:
just ride a tricycle (or calesa if you're a usual tourist) to take you to the secret garden in barangay Bulala, at a corner of the road going to Mindoro Airport (the domestic airport in Vigan) and the service road going to Baluarte zoo of Gov. Chavit Singson in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. If you have a car, drive by Rizal Avenue, turn right when you see the cemetery that looks like a park, left at the end then ask around :P
(if you have a GPS, coordinates are: N17 33 36.3 E120 21 53.7 (Try OpenStreetMap, it's there on the map added by Tutubi))
Vigan Empanada (an alternative to Vigan Empanadahan at Vigan City center)
Vigan Sinanglao (an alternative to the authentic ambiance of sinanglao breakfast at Vigan Plaza Salcedo.
All photos taken with iPhone 4 (Tutubi loves the new iPhone 4 camera, muchh improved from the old iPhone 3G/3GS).
During his second visit, he got interested in a "secret" garden restaurant outside the city proper, called Hidden Garden in barangay Bulala. Right after checking in at Cordillera Inn, he thought of a light meal of Vigan Empanada not at the Empanadahan which is just a short walk away, but at the Hidden Garden restaurants.
Photos of Hidden Garden Restaurant in Vigan, Ilocos Sur (taken using Tutubi's borrowed iPhone 4 at around 5:30pm so it's getting dark already)
the native grotto inside Hidden Garden, what greets you after the front office going to the restaurant
garden with topiaries, plants and flowers and gardening implements, for sale, byt the way
The dining area with overhanging millionaires vine, near the Lover's Corner
After the Empanada Corner is a pathway to the Secret Garden, Tutubi was greeted by a swarm of mosquitoes here, all but natural for gardens, so be prepared with your mosquito repellants
Hidden Garden's native halo-halo (that Tutubi finds not so good yet not bad at all, gelatin, sweetened banana, sago, cheese, pinipig (rice crispies), wafer stick, ice cream and coconut milk)
So how did Tutubi rate/review Hidden Garden?
Location: far but within reach of the crowd, probably crowded on weekends
Ambiance: relaxing and natural with the garden setting. there's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine near the Lover's corner...for couples :P
Downside: swarm of mosquitoes greeted Tutubi when he tried to enter the garden with trees, only natural for a place, but Tutubi wasn't prepared so he stepped back. Besides, it's already getting dark so taking pictures is almost no use.
Price: empanada, the same at Vigan Empanadahan. others, quite reasonable considering it's location and romantic ambiance.
Customer Service: service was ok with no other people around. Tutubi tried to inquire about hoe to get there by sending a text message to their published contact number (on their official website with several telephone numbers). All he got was a "hu u?" reply and no real asnwer to his question. Hidden garden resutaurant owner should train his/her staff on how to courteously reply to inquiries and provide the requested answer.
others: there are plants and garden items on display and for sale. there's also a souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Overall: it deserves a second look, particularly since Tutubi went there for a only short time and ordered just two items on the menu. Tutubi would love to try out Ilocos Specialties and delicacies next time.
Hidden Garden Menu prices featuring Vigan Specialties:
Vigan Bagnet: PhP150.00
Vigan Longganiza: P150.00 (6 pcs)
Sinanglao: PhP130.00
Warek-warek: PhP130.00
Poqui-poqui (or poki-poki): PhP90.00
Dinengdeng PhP130.00
Igado PhP120.00
Pakbet with Bagnet: PhP100.00
Steam rice: P15.00
Garlic rice: PhP25.00
Filipino breakfast: PhP90.00 (longsilog, bangsilog, tapsilog)
Vigan Empanada: PhP45.00
Native Halo-halo: PhP75.00
Fresh fruit shakes at PhP80.00 - PhP100.00
Notes:
How to get to Hidden Garden:
just ride a tricycle (or calesa if you're a usual tourist) to take you to the secret garden in barangay Bulala, at a corner of the road going to Mindoro Airport (the domestic airport in Vigan) and the service road going to Baluarte zoo of Gov. Chavit Singson in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. If you have a car, drive by Rizal Avenue, turn right when you see the cemetery that looks like a park, left at the end then ask around :P
(if you have a GPS, coordinates are: N17 33 36.3 E120 21 53.7 (Try OpenStreetMap, it's there on the map added by Tutubi))
Vigan Empanada (an alternative to Vigan Empanadahan at Vigan City center)
Vigan Sinanglao (an alternative to the authentic ambiance of sinanglao breakfast at Vigan Plaza Salcedo.
All photos taken with iPhone 4 (Tutubi loves the new iPhone 4 camera, muchh improved from the old iPhone 3G/3GS).
Labels: Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Restaurants, Vigan, Vigan Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 8:08 PM,
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San Agustin Church Bantay, Ilocos Sur
12 March 2011
An old church with a picturesque bell tower built a few meters separate from the main church building, it is a popular stop for visitors of Vigan, the church entrance gate and service road can be seen on the national highway just across the Petron gas station
the bell tower of St. Augustine Church of Bantay, Ilocos Sur
another look at Bantay Church bell tower
the reconstructed facade of San Agustin, Bantay, a hint of romanesque architecture is visible (tip: visit the church in the afternoon to get better lighting for the facade)
the interiors of the church is modern with steel trusses and supports
Note: a registration table near the church entrance can be sighted. Donations are not necessary but the manner in which the two persons manning the donation box implies it's required or they just don't have the right manners to properly ask Tutubi.
St. Augustine Church Mass Schedule:
Daily masses: 5:30am
Saturday: 7am pilgrim mass for Apo Caridad
Sunday mass schedules: 4:30am, 6:30am, 8:30am
Parish Feast days:
January 12 canonical coronation anniversary Nuestra Senora de Caridad
May 5 Bantay Town Fiesta / Conversion of St. Augustine
September (first Sunday) La Naval Fiesta
Lastly, it was also in the town of Bantay where Diego Silang was killed by Vicos, on a street named Encuentro at the town plaza, now named Diego Silang Park. There also used to be a monument to Miguel Vicos at the town square.
the bell tower of St. Augustine Church of Bantay, Ilocos Sur
another look at Bantay Church bell towerthe reconstructed facade of San Agustin, Bantay, a hint of romanesque architecture is visible (tip: visit the church in the afternoon to get better lighting for the facade)
the interiors of the church is modern with steel trusses and supportsNote: a registration table near the church entrance can be sighted. Donations are not necessary but the manner in which the two persons manning the donation box implies it's required or they just don't have the right manners to properly ask Tutubi.
St. Augustine Church Mass Schedule:
Daily masses: 5:30am
Saturday: 7am pilgrim mass for Apo Caridad
Sunday mass schedules: 4:30am, 6:30am, 8:30am
Parish Feast days:
January 12 canonical coronation anniversary Nuestra Senora de Caridad
May 5 Bantay Town Fiesta / Conversion of St. Augustine
September (first Sunday) La Naval Fiesta
Lastly, it was also in the town of Bantay where Diego Silang was killed by Vicos, on a street named Encuentro at the town plaza, now named Diego Silang Park. There also used to be a monument to Miguel Vicos at the town square.
Labels: Churches, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur
posted by GingGoy @ 11:11 PM,
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Palawan: How to Get to El Nido from Sabang, Puerto Princesa (Boats, Jeeps, Bus, San Jose New Market)
11 March 2011
For people looking forward to visiting Palawan, here's the latest fare and rates information to expect when traveling in Palawan using public transportation, plus other tips gathered by Tutubi when he visited Palawan a few weeks ago.
Note that the Puerto Princesa public transportation terminal is at San Jose New Market, a jeepney ride (signboard: New Market, fare PhP12.00) or tricycle ride from Puerto Princesa Airport (fare: around PhP15.00)
At San Jose New Market, you can ride jeepneys, buses and vans to several points of Palawan.
Puerto Princesa to Sabang jeepneys
fare: PhP125.00 (first trip at 7am, last trip at 3pm, travel time: 2 hours)
Return trip from Sabang to Puerto Princesa last trip is at 2pm daily. Sabang to Honda Bay is by the same jeepneys but there's another tricycle ride or walk.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido: vans, travel time around 6 hours.
Fare: PhP700.00 (best to be at the van terminal before 10am)
V-Hire: vans for hire to El Nido from Puerto Princesa
round trip rate: PhP12,000.00 (van good for 14 people, per Tutubi's contact)
Sabang, Puerto Princesa (gateway to Palawan Underground River)
a jeepney in Sabang waiting for passengers to Puerto Princesa city proper. Ride the same jeeps when going to Honda Bay from Sabang
Sabang to Salvacion Junction jeeps
fare: PhP100.00 (first trip at 7am)
Salvacion Junction to El Nido (bus)
Bus Fare: PhP300.00
travel time: around 8 hours
Boat trips to El Nido and other points in Palawan as displayed in Sabang Beach
Sabang to El Nido Boat/Ferry Schedules and fare:
Departure time: 7am daily
Sabang to El Nido fare: PhP1,400.00 (travel time 6+ hours)
Sabang to Coconut Garden fare: PhP850.00
Sabang to Port Barton fare: PhP850.00
Note: Prices, Costs and Fares may change without prior notice, mainly due to skyrocketing gasoline prices. Expect fare hikes anytime soon. Tutubi will update this from time to time by calling his friend in Palawan (sorry, can't post his contact number here for privacy)
Coming soon: El Nido to Coron, Busuanga and Calamianes Group of Islands bus, boat and ferry information.
Related Posts:
How to get to Puerto Princesa Underground River
How to get to El Nido, Palawan
Palawan Eco-tourism
Puerto Princesa Airport
Accommodations and Beach Resorts in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Note that the Puerto Princesa public transportation terminal is at San Jose New Market, a jeepney ride (signboard: New Market, fare PhP12.00) or tricycle ride from Puerto Princesa Airport (fare: around PhP15.00)
At San Jose New Market, you can ride jeepneys, buses and vans to several points of Palawan.
Puerto Princesa to Sabang jeepneys
fare: PhP125.00 (first trip at 7am, last trip at 3pm, travel time: 2 hours)
Return trip from Sabang to Puerto Princesa last trip is at 2pm daily. Sabang to Honda Bay is by the same jeepneys but there's another tricycle ride or walk.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido: vans, travel time around 6 hours.
Fare: PhP700.00 (best to be at the van terminal before 10am)
V-Hire: vans for hire to El Nido from Puerto Princesa
round trip rate: PhP12,000.00 (van good for 14 people, per Tutubi's contact)
Sabang, Puerto Princesa (gateway to Palawan Underground River)
a jeepney in Sabang waiting for passengers to Puerto Princesa city proper. Ride the same jeeps when going to Honda Bay from SabangSabang to Salvacion Junction jeeps
fare: PhP100.00 (first trip at 7am)
Salvacion Junction to El Nido (bus)
Bus Fare: PhP300.00
travel time: around 8 hours
Boat trips to El Nido and other points in Palawan as displayed in Sabang BeachSabang to El Nido Boat/Ferry Schedules and fare:
Departure time: 7am daily
Sabang to El Nido fare: PhP1,400.00 (travel time 6+ hours)
Sabang to Coconut Garden fare: PhP850.00
Sabang to Port Barton fare: PhP850.00
Note: Prices, Costs and Fares may change without prior notice, mainly due to skyrocketing gasoline prices. Expect fare hikes anytime soon. Tutubi will update this from time to time by calling his friend in Palawan (sorry, can't post his contact number here for privacy)
Coming soon: El Nido to Coron, Busuanga and Calamianes Group of Islands bus, boat and ferry information.
Related Posts:
How to get to Puerto Princesa Underground River
How to get to El Nido, Palawan
Palawan Eco-tourism
Puerto Princesa Airport
Accommodations and Beach Resorts in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Labels: Mimaropa, Palawan, Public Transportation
posted by GingGoy @ 11:11 PM,
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The Tobacco "Killing Fields" of Ilocos Sur
07 March 2011
While on the road, Tutubi has difficulty of sleeping and prefers to stay awake and stare at the window always on the lookout for a new discovery, however trivial, for it's always along the way that serendipity strikes or a moment to be seen may be missed.
While slowly traversing a narrow road from Santiago Cove, he noticed patches of vegetables that turned out to be, on closer inspection, tobacco plants, interspersed with corn fields. It's the first time he noticed them up close, hectares and hectares of them planted with the addicting plant made into cigars and cigarettes.
a drive-by picture of a tobacco "killing field" somewhere in Ilocos Sur
tobacco plant picture up close (actually a cropped copy of a drive-by photo)
Trivia: Tutubi doesn't smoke, he didn't even try to puff a stick of cigarette in his life. He only knew how to light one when requested by father to light one for him when he was a child. Noone among his 4 brothers and 2 sisters smoke; good thing his father quit the vice a few years ago.
Tutubi wants the tobacco farmers of Ilocos to shy away from the evil plant by turning to alternative cash crops or other means of livelihood. Cannabis fields (or planting marijuana fields in upland plantations make a lot of money but destroys those who abuse the pot, cannabis is great though as medicine if properly administered)
Lastly, smokers not only endanger their own health but of the other people near them. Cigarette butts, however small and innoccuous-looking, in large quantities clog up drainage in Makati, where supposedly "educated" smokers throw cigarette butts on the sidewalk and everywhere "so that the street sweepers can retain their job." Such logic! :(
While slowly traversing a narrow road from Santiago Cove, he noticed patches of vegetables that turned out to be, on closer inspection, tobacco plants, interspersed with corn fields. It's the first time he noticed them up close, hectares and hectares of them planted with the addicting plant made into cigars and cigarettes.
a drive-by picture of a tobacco "killing field" somewhere in Ilocos Sur
tobacco plant picture up close (actually a cropped copy of a drive-by photo)Trivia: Tutubi doesn't smoke, he didn't even try to puff a stick of cigarette in his life. He only knew how to light one when requested by father to light one for him when he was a child. Noone among his 4 brothers and 2 sisters smoke; good thing his father quit the vice a few years ago.
Tutubi wants the tobacco farmers of Ilocos to shy away from the evil plant by turning to alternative cash crops or other means of livelihood. Cannabis fields (or planting marijuana fields in upland plantations make a lot of money but destroys those who abuse the pot, cannabis is great though as medicine if properly administered)
Lastly, smokers not only endanger their own health but of the other people near them. Cigarette butts, however small and innoccuous-looking, in large quantities clog up drainage in Makati, where supposedly "educated" smokers throw cigarette butts on the sidewalk and everywhere "so that the street sweepers can retain their job." Such logic! :(
Labels: Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur
posted by GingGoy @ 7:57 PM,
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Cheap Palawan Ecoutourism Package Tours for Protection of the Environment
06 March 2011
As Tutubi's homage to the late broadcaster-environmentalist Doc Gerry Ortega of Palawan, Tutubi's publishing this post on his 40th day, for the information of many people and visitors to Palawan, the 5 ecotourism projects Doc Gerry helped established as head of ABS-CBN Foundation.
Note that unlike most tourism projects in the country, the 5 ecotourism sites in Palawan are all community-based sustainable tourism sites.
The next time you visit Palawan, do try to consider checking them out, not too expensive tours that provide direct livelihood to people of the community and helps protect the environment.
1. Bacungan River Cruise and Floating Restaurant in Puerto Princesa
Location: Sitio San Carlos, five minutes away from the city proper
A floating restaurant with meals while cruising along the Bacungan River and the 378-hectare mangrove swamp surrounding the river.
Cost: PhP3,500.00 for 10 people (Add PhP80.00 if more than 10 people)
Lunch: PhP150 to 200 per person
Contact Person: Mrs. Emma Dacanay
Contact Number: +63.907.973.0251
2. Honda Bay Island-Hopping and Snorkeling
Location: Dalubkaragatan in Pambato Reef.
Community: Honda Bay Boat Owners Association Inc.,
Tour Price: banca ride PhP1,500.00 for six people. (PhP250/pax in excess of 6 pax)
Rental for snorkeling gear: PhP 100.00 (suggest you bring your own)
Contact Number for reservations: +63.929.864.9255
3. Iwahig River Firefly Watching and River Cruise
Location: Iwahig River, 45 minutes south of Puerto Princesa city proper
Community: Iwahig Community Ecotourism Association Inc.
Tour Price: PhP600.00 per banca, good for three people.
Contact Person: Nelia David +63.910.600.1686
4. Ugong Rock Climb And Zipline
Location: Brgy. Tagabinet, 2 hours away from the city proper, a few minutes from Sabang
Length of zipline: 350 meters, about 2 minutes
Price: PhP350.00
Contact: Marivel Ocajada +63.930.862.2750; +63.918.755.8993
5. Puerto Princesa Bay Dolphin And Whale Watching
Seasonal tour from April to October (there could be tours during November to March but the waves caused by amihan may be too high and dangerous)
Tour package price: PhP600.00/person, in groups of six or more
Contact person: Jet Millare +63.918.755.8993
Go ahead, try one or all of these cheap Palawan package tours and help preserve the beauty of Palawan!
Source:
www.no2mininginpalawan.com
Note that unlike most tourism projects in the country, the 5 ecotourism sites in Palawan are all community-based sustainable tourism sites.
The next time you visit Palawan, do try to consider checking them out, not too expensive tours that provide direct livelihood to people of the community and helps protect the environment.
1. Bacungan River Cruise and Floating Restaurant in Puerto Princesa
Location: Sitio San Carlos, five minutes away from the city proper
A floating restaurant with meals while cruising along the Bacungan River and the 378-hectare mangrove swamp surrounding the river.
Cost: PhP3,500.00 for 10 people (Add PhP80.00 if more than 10 people)
Lunch: PhP150 to 200 per person
Contact Person: Mrs. Emma Dacanay
Contact Number: +63.907.973.0251
2. Honda Bay Island-Hopping and Snorkeling
Location: Dalubkaragatan in Pambato Reef.
Community: Honda Bay Boat Owners Association Inc.,
Tour Price: banca ride PhP1,500.00 for six people. (PhP250/pax in excess of 6 pax)
Rental for snorkeling gear: PhP 100.00 (suggest you bring your own)
Contact Number for reservations: +63.929.864.9255
3. Iwahig River Firefly Watching and River Cruise
Location: Iwahig River, 45 minutes south of Puerto Princesa city proper
Community: Iwahig Community Ecotourism Association Inc.
Tour Price: PhP600.00 per banca, good for three people.
Contact Person: Nelia David +63.910.600.1686
4. Ugong Rock Climb And Zipline
Location: Brgy. Tagabinet, 2 hours away from the city proper, a few minutes from Sabang
Length of zipline: 350 meters, about 2 minutes
Price: PhP350.00
Contact: Marivel Ocajada +63.930.862.2750; +63.918.755.8993
5. Puerto Princesa Bay Dolphin And Whale Watching
Seasonal tour from April to October (there could be tours during November to March but the waves caused by amihan may be too high and dangerous)
Tour package price: PhP600.00/person, in groups of six or more
Contact person: Jet Millare +63.918.755.8993
Go ahead, try one or all of these cheap Palawan package tours and help preserve the beauty of Palawan!
Source:
www.no2mininginpalawan.com
Labels: Ecotourism, Mimaropa, Palawan
posted by GingGoy @ 8:14 PM,
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The White Sand Beach of Sabangan, Santiago, Ilocos Sur
01 March 2011
Probably the best beach in Ilocos Sur in terms of sand quality, as Tutubi has seen almost all of them, with fine white sand but quite short actually to be developed with numerous beach resorts. Estimated to be slightly more than a kilometer in length, Tutubi saw several cottages, probably for rent, to beach bummers and family picnics and outings, plus an obviously upscale beach resort, reportedly owned by Ilocos Sur Congressman Singson, on the southern end of the crescent moon-shaped beach in Sabangan Cove, Santiago Bay, sometimes called Santiago Cove, in Ilocos Sur.
a hidden treasure of Ilocos Sur, a white sand beach without the crowds
Not too many people on the beach, something Tutubi loves, but probably also due to the time when Tutubi passed by, almost 10 in the morning. No other information on other beach resorts (besides Ilocos Marina Resort Club that Tutubi can't even find official website and contact telephone numbers), overnight accommodations, suitable dive sites and snorkling grounds, island-hopping and other signs of commercial activity, if there's any.
Ilocos Marina Resort Club, the only santiago beach resort sighted by Tutubi, reportedly owned by Congressman Singson
Santiago Cove picture taken from the southern end of the moon-shaped beach
Tutubi recommends this...he's sure that you'll come to love it as it's also less than an hour south of Vigan City. He'll love to stay here longer to swim and stay longer the next time, instead of merely taking a few pictures before going away, as he found it relaxing and not littered with people peddling items, hawking wares or offering "sex on the beach." He loves taking pictures of sunsets and sometimes sunrises, if his inherently lazy bones don't stop him from waking up early.
There you go, Tutubi posted something good about a beach without bashing the crowded and most popular beach down south! :P
---
Sabangan Cove, Santiago Bay, Santiago, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°17'17"N 120°26'1"E
How to get there: Ride a tricycle from Santiago Church or Santiago Public Market on the national highway. The access road, near the public market, going west (left if you're going to Vigan after passing Santiago town plaza), has directions and signs leading to the place (Santiago Cove).
Santiago celebrates town fiesta on July 25, the fest day of St. James the Great, the patron saint of Tutubi's hometown Paete, Laguna.
Tutubi found this lovely beach during his second trip to Ilocos Sur with the aid of Wikimapia and with the coordinates entered into his Garmin Nuvi 1300 GPS navigator.
a hidden treasure of Ilocos Sur, a white sand beach without the crowds 
Not too many people on the beach, something Tutubi loves, but probably also due to the time when Tutubi passed by, almost 10 in the morning. No other information on other beach resorts (besides Ilocos Marina Resort Club that Tutubi can't even find official website and contact telephone numbers), overnight accommodations, suitable dive sites and snorkling grounds, island-hopping and other signs of commercial activity, if there's any.
Ilocos Marina Resort Club, the only santiago beach resort sighted by Tutubi, reportedly owned by Congressman Singson
Santiago Cove picture taken from the southern end of the moon-shaped beachTutubi recommends this...he's sure that you'll come to love it as it's also less than an hour south of Vigan City. He'll love to stay here longer to swim and stay longer the next time, instead of merely taking a few pictures before going away, as he found it relaxing and not littered with people peddling items, hawking wares or offering "sex on the beach." He loves taking pictures of sunsets and sometimes sunrises, if his inherently lazy bones don't stop him from waking up early.
There you go, Tutubi posted something good about a beach without bashing the crowded and most popular beach down south! :P
---
Sabangan Cove, Santiago Bay, Santiago, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°17'17"N 120°26'1"E
How to get there: Ride a tricycle from Santiago Church or Santiago Public Market on the national highway. The access road, near the public market, going west (left if you're going to Vigan after passing Santiago town plaza), has directions and signs leading to the place (Santiago Cove).
Santiago celebrates town fiesta on July 25, the fest day of St. James the Great, the patron saint of Tutubi's hometown Paete, Laguna.
Tutubi found this lovely beach during his second trip to Ilocos Sur with the aid of Wikimapia and with the coordinates entered into his Garmin Nuvi 1300 GPS navigator.
Labels: Beaches, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur
posted by GingGoy @ 8:43 PM,
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Laguna: Hidden Valley Springs Alaminos: Contact Number, Website and Day Tour Package Rates?
Tutubi was looking for hidden valley rates and day tours and overnight accommodations packages but had difficulty finding hidden valley website, perhaps their official website is also very hidden like their name suggests.
herewith is hidden valley day trip rates for your info:
Lunch Package
welcome drinks, buffet lunch, buffet meryenda and use of resort facilities
Adult: PhP 2000.00
Children ages 5-10 years old: PhP1000.00
Below 4 years old: free
Dinner Package
welcome drinks, buffet dinner, buffet meryenda and use of resort facilities
Adult: PhP 2200.00
Children ages 5-10 years old: PhP1100.00
Below 4 years old: free
Hidden valley Springs Official website: http://www.hiddenvalleysprings.com.ph
please call hidden valley's contact numbers for reservations, inquiries and other promos or visit hidden valley official website or email for booking and reservations.
Now I know why googling their site is hard, they're using flash. No such thing too as cheap hidden valley day tours :(
if Tutubi gets past his laziness, he'll post information on how to get to hidden valley springs or directions to hidden valley springs or a road map of hidden valley springs. :P
herewith is hidden valley day trip rates for your info:
Lunch Package
welcome drinks, buffet lunch, buffet meryenda and use of resort facilities
Adult: PhP 2000.00
Children ages 5-10 years old: PhP1000.00
Below 4 years old: free
Dinner Package
welcome drinks, buffet dinner, buffet meryenda and use of resort facilities
Adult: PhP 2200.00
Children ages 5-10 years old: PhP1100.00
Below 4 years old: free
Hidden valley Springs Official website: http://www.hiddenvalleysprings.com.ph
please call hidden valley's contact numbers for reservations, inquiries and other promos or visit hidden valley official website or email for booking and reservations.
Now I know why googling their site is hard, they're using flash. No such thing too as cheap hidden valley day tours :(
if Tutubi gets past his laziness, he'll post information on how to get to hidden valley springs or directions to hidden valley springs or a road map of hidden valley springs. :P
posted by GingGoy @ 8:05 PM,
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