Author Archives: ilovesunsetsbythesea
I’m Lost
I feel like a lost soul, aimlessly wandering through life, eyes clouded by fear. But I am hopeful that I will soon see things in God’s perspective, as certain as the sun rising in the morrow.
Rockin’ the White Rocks
During one of my recent trips to my province, Ilocos Norte, my friend Rocky and I decided, out of the blue, to visit Kapurpurawan White Rock Formation in Burgos, about 30 minutes away from my hometown Pagudpud. The reason why we both really wanted to go there was simple – we thought it was weird that we haven’t been there when everyone else we know had been. I, for one, found it embarrassing when my Manila friends asked me how it looked like and I didn’t really know what to tell them. Before the trip, I only saw it from photos of friends who’ve gone there. Armed with the determination (and my iPhone) to finally see Kapurpurawan, we rode in Rocky’s motorbike to Burgos at 10 in the morning, not minding the uncomfortable heat of the sun.
On the way to Kapurpurawan on a motorbike
The place is about 30-45 minutes of dusty road away from the highway.
From the jump-off point, we walked for about 5-10 minutes. You can also take the option to ride a horse for P100 pesos.
Getting nearer. We still have to go around the hill to really see the whole thing.
At last!
This is no place for swimming. Too rocky. 🙂
At 12NN, we were both drenched in sweat when we got back to the jump-off point but I felt so glad that we pushed through with our unplanned trip to Kapurpurawan. It was an adventure like no other, and I was amazed with what I saw.
I’m happy that there aren’t any hotels or resorts or restaurants in the area yet. Although there are vendors at the jump-off point and one along the trail, I just wish they’d remain at that number. Too many vendors mean food and plastics and garbage. I hope they can maintain the pristine-ness of the place.
Now, I can finally confidently describe how beautiful the White Rock Formation is to anyone who’ll ask me. On our way home, I closed my eyes and offered my face to the wind and sun and thanked God for a wonderful day.
Check out the sceneries that we saw on our way home:
Bangui Windmills
The town of Bangui
Pagudpud. Home.
My Love – Hate Relationship with Rain
Raindrops
I have a LOVE-HATE relationship with rain.
I love it when it rains because it makes me want to snuggle and sleep.
I hate when it rains on weekdays or schooldays because I’d get so sleepy and lazy at work or in class.
I love how rain cools down the hot weather in my city, especially during summer.
I hate it when it rains just as I’m about to head out somewhere or when I’m about to go home because I hate wet clothes clinging to my skin and commuting is particularly hard in Metro Manila when it’s raining.
I love the sound of the raindrops pouring down on roofs and pavements.
I hate it when the rain comes with loud thunder and lighting.
I love it when it rains at night because I don’t have to use the AC or the fan (less electrical consumption = more savings).
I hate it when it rains incessantly that even the water from the faucet and shower gets cold (I don’t like taking a bath with chilly water. Brrr!)
I love the rain because it brings back good memories from my childhood – bathing in the rain my friends and cousins, playing board games, card games or hide and seek inside our old family house, and many many wonderful memories.
Why Dad Cried
My dad is a tough guy but he’s also gooey on the inside, especially when it comes to family. I remember the first time I saw him cry because of me. I was in second year high school then and was still not allowed to have a boyfriend. But stubborn as I was, I got myself into a relationship and dad found out eventually. I still recall that morning when he told me he wanted to talk to me. I sat down on the sofa with guilt written on my face. Dad sat beside me quietly. When I looked up, tears were welling up from his eyes.
He told me in between croaks, “Dorothy Mae, anakko, leppasem kadi pay lang ti panagadal mo! Uray agpakasar kanto nga sigud no makagraduate ka ti college. Ti nasken ket makalpas ka. Uray siak to pay ti aggastos ti kasar mo.” (Dorothy Mae, my child, please finish your studies first. You can get married right after college, if that’s what you want. I can even shoulder all the cost of your wedding, as long as you finish college first.)
It was a lengthy sermon from my dad and all I could say was, “Wen (Yes), Dad.” I wanted to tell him that I wasn’t planning on getting married at that moment or in the near future but I just kept silent. After that, I did break up with my boyfriend then. I think we got back together after a few months but it eventually ended when I had to go away for college.
Of course, I finished high school – with honors – and graduated from college on time. I’m pretty sure my dad was so happy to see me finally receiving my college diploma. He must also have felt relieved that I didn’t have a boyfriend that time.
Related articles
- Just Like Dad (oncealittlegirl.com)
- Dad, I Want You to Meet Somebody… (dadoffourgirls.wordpress.com)
I Love Writing
When I was in high school, I kept a journal describing in detail the highlights of my teenage years. I was also fond of writing poems and essays back then. When I go home tomorrow night, I’m gonna try to look for those journals and notebooks and post some of my writings here. I’m expecting it would be filled with corny, cheesy thoughts but it would be fun to just remember those days. I just hope they’re still in the memorabilia boxes in my room.
Let Kids Teach You
While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.
~ Angela Schwindt
Chillin’ Like a Villain
Sup, dude?
It’s easy to read children’s emotions. What do you think was going on in this kid’s head?
(Sorry, photo’s a bit unfocused. I was kinda excited to capture this kid’s facial expression.)
I got nominated for the One Lovely Blog Award!
I’d like to thank LyndaMichele for nominating me for the One Lovely Blog Award! I am glad that you find my blog “informative, fun, and inspiring”. You should go check out her blog, too. I love how she captures the beauty of nature and the things around her through photography.
Here are the guidelines for accepting this award:
1.Link back to the blogger who nominated you. 2.Paste the award image on your blog, anywhere. 3.Tell them 7 facts about yourself. 4.Nominate 15 other blogs you like for this award. 5.Contact the bloggers that you have chosen to let them know that they have been nominated.
So, in accordance to the rules of the award, here are 7 facts about myself (this is the hardest part!):
1. I grew up in the northwestern most town of the Philippines – Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.
2. I am afraid of snakes!
3. I love photography.
4. I love the beach.
5. I want to learn how to surf and dive.
6. I am currently reading A Dance With Dragons by George R.R. Martin.
7. My greatest dream is to be a pilot.
~~~~~~~~~~
Here are my nominees:
5. Stories of My Wandering Feet (& Mind)
9. Second Lunch
10. California Pixie
11. Maftravelgraphy
12. The Ego Tripper
13. Illumylife
14. My office is the road, my service is the carabao
CHEERS!
I’m a Daddy’s Girl
I suddenly miss my dad. Probably because it’s Father’s Day on Sunday? Or the fact that he’s coming over to visit this weekend? Maybe. I miss being a daddy’s girl, which I still am. I miss our fights, our crying moments, our hugs with mom.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad!
P.S. I love you (and mom) a lot!
Sunrise
Sunrise at Abra de Ilog port, on the way to Apo Reef, Occidental Mindoro
Welcome each day with gratefulness in your heart and love and blessings will flow abundantly.
I Love to Read!
I love reading. It’s one of the things that I wish I could do everyday. I always bring a book with me wherever I go. If I can’t bring one, I make sure there’s an e-book in my iPhone. I like to read different kinds of books. Lately, I’ve been hooked to trilogies and series novels. My most favorite books, however, are children’s story books. There are so many good children’s story books here in Philippines and I love to read and collect them. I just love how the writers weave their stories to capture the interest of children (and adults like me). One day, I want to write a story book, too!
Favorite Subject: Recess
School bell in a rural area the Philippines
It’s common here in the Philippines that when asked about our favorite subject in school, we jokingly answer RECESS. But since recess is not really a subject, it is my favorite time of the day in the school. When the school bell was rang signaling both snack and lunch time, I was grateful to have a few minutes to take the lessons off my mind and just relax and feed my ever hungry stomach.
In effect, recess actually is an important part of the day in school. For one, it gives students the time to process what they’ve learned. It also provides them an avenue to interact with their classmates and schoolmates. Recess helps develop interpersonal communication skills among students.
For teachers, recess is a chance to rest for a while before the next hours of grueling work. Teaching is one of the hardest jobs ever. My parents are both public elementary school teachers so I know how hard it is to be one. (That’s the reason why I never dreamed of following in their footsteps.)
By the way, do you a lot of public schools in the rural areas here in the Philippines use empty shells of bombs during the World War 2 as school bells? My school had one.
Ding! Ding! Ding! It’s time for recess!
Learning to Ride the Bike
I can’t remember exactly when I learned how to ride a single bike. I must have been 6 or 7 years old then because I recall having a hard time reaching for the pedals.
I can still clearly remember how it happened. It was summertime and I really wanted to learn so badly. I already knew how to ride the bike with a sidecar, and I wanted to level up. All day, I nagged my father to teach me until he said yes. That afternoon, my dad detached my grandfather’s bike from its sidecar and he started to teach me. The road in front of our family house was dusty but I didn’t mind. All I wanted was to learn to ride the single bike so I can join my friends and neighbors in their biking adventures. For the next few hours, he patiently held the bike while I pedaled and tried to balance. After a few meters, he would let go of the bike but he would still be running after me just in case I fell. We did it again and again, but I always lost balance after a few meters.
Come dusk, Dad told me it was time to end the day’s bike training. I didn’t want to stop. I just couldn’t give up. So I told him to go home ahead. When he was gone, I told myself that I could do it even if I have to learn on my own. I mounted the bike, put my right foot on the right pedal, pushed forward and tried to balance as I pedaled my way down the dusty road. But because it was getting really dark, I didn’t notice the big stone along the road. I lost my balance, crashed and got a scraped knee. It was painful, but it didn’t stop me from getting up and mounting the bike again. This time, I told myself to try one last time.
I summoned all the strength and courage in me, took a deep breath, and started pedaling. You know what happened next. I did it. I finally learned to ride a single bicycle. Hurray!
See, it takes courage and perseverance to realize a dream, coupled with guidance from other people and from God. But it must all start with your decision to pursue what it is you want to do. Sometimes it’s hard to start, sometimes it’s even painful, but you won’t go any far unless you take that first step.
Balloons and Cameras
I love balloons. Seeing kids with balloons always make me smile. Even just the sight of balloons make me happy.
That’s me, loving the balloons!
See how happy I was having seen these cute balloons? I just had to have my photo taken with them at that time. Thanks to my friend Rocky for taking this photo.
Like any other kid, I grew up wanting to have at least one of the balloons from the children’s parties I was invited to. Here’s a proof of that:
Me and my Aunt at a family friend’s birthday party
My aunt told me she was laughing at me because I didn’t want my photo taken. But I guess the photographer just couldn’t resist making fun of me. Whoever he/she was, I thank him/her deeply for this photo. It brings back fond memories and never fails to make me smile.
From a kid who was afraid of the camera, I love that I grew up to be someone who came to love it a lot. 🙂
Back to School
It’s back to school season again. After much thought and self-convincing, I’ve decided to enroll this semester hoping to finally finish my masters degree soon. I certainly hope I’d finish it before I reach the 5-year mark for maximum residency at my school. I should have been done with it already if I didn’t stop for 3 semesters because of some other important opportunities. But I’m glad that my inspiration to pursue my dream never wavered. I thank God for the resources and opportunities He has given me to be able to soar high and reach for my dreams.
For all of you going back to school, may you never lose hope and faith. May all your dreams come true! Cheers!
Courage: My 1st Attempt to Write for Kids
I’ve always wanted to be a writer of children’s storybooks. This is one of my first attempts at it. I’ll try to translate it to English soon.
———
Title: Kaya Ko Kaya?
Akyat. Baba. Akyat. Baba.
Kunot noong pinagmamasdan ni Tatay Angelino ang kanyang sampung taong gulang na anak na si Nina habang akyat-baba ito sa kanilang hagdan. “Anak, ano bang nangyayari sa iyo at parang hindi ka mapakali?” nag-aalalang sabi niya.
“Papa, hindi ko talaga kaya! Gusto ko pero natatakot ako,” hindi matiyak ni Nina kung sasabihin ba niya sa ama ang kanyang problema.
“Naku, may problema pala ang aking anak! Bakit hindi mo sabihin kay Papa at baka matulungan ka niya,” may lambing ang boses ni Tatay Angelino.
“Sasabihin ko ba sa kanya?” tanong ni Nina sa sarili. “Errr…eh kasi Papa inannounce ni Teacher Norma sa klase na may Poster-Making contest na naman sa school namin. Gusto ko sanang sumali kaya lang hindi ko yata kaya,” paliwanag ni Nina.
Napangiti si Tatay Angelino. “Anak, bakit hindi mo subukan. Naniniwala ako sa iyong kakayahan. Kayang kaya mo yun!”
“Papa, natatakot nga ako! Baka hindi nila magustuhan ang drawing ko. Baka pagtawanan lang nila ako. Nakakahiya! Saka alam ko namang may mas magaling pa sakin magdrawing sa klase,” sabi ni Nina.
Niyakap ng mahigpit ni Tatay Angelino si Nina. “Anak, hindi mahalaga kung ano ang sasabihin ng iba. Ang importante, sundin mo ang sinasabi ng iyong puso at kung saan ka masaya. Kung gusto mong lumikha ng mga magagandang larawan, gawin mo ito. Dahil ipinagkaloob ito ng Diyos sa iyo at kailangan mong ibahagi sa iba.”
Mahigpit na yumakap si Nina sa kanyang ama. Bukas na bukas din, alam na niya ang kanyang gagawin.
June Series
The month of June is the start of the school year here in the Philippines. This month, I will be posting photos and stories about kids and childhood and anything connected with children – school, play, fun. Join me in reliving the joy of being a child.
Stay a child while you can be a child. ~ STEPHEN SONDHEIM, Into the Woods
Revisiting Anawangin
Almost 4 years ago, my friend Jessica and I, along with her two older siblings, decided to go on a weekend trip to Anawangin Cove, Zambales. It was not part of the trips that we planned but we got excited to go there ASAP when we saw the pictures of this hidden treasure on the internet. So,after a few days preparation, we set off to discover the place. And it turned out to be a great weekend getaway.
Some time in April, some of my office mates saw a deal from CASHCASHPINOY.COM for a group package tour to Anawangin and I got invited. It had been four years since I last went there, so I said yes. There were about 30 of us who went to Anawangin that weekend.
This blog post is not about how to get there or what to do or see in Anawangin. The place has been quite famous for the past few years and it has earned a great number of blog posts. My post, on the other hand, is about how different Anawangin has become after 4 long years.
These are some of the shots that Jes and I took in Capones and Camara Islands and in Anawangin Cove when I first went there in 2008:
Pundaquit – the gateway to Anawangin, Camara and Capones Islands
On the boat heading to Camara Island
Camara Island during low tide
Tide’s down at Camara Island
Capones Island (without the white sand shoreline that it has now)
Huge rocks at Capones Island
Behold, Anawangin Cove!
The clean, clear waters (Photo by Jes)
No stores, no fences, no trash (Photo by Jes)
A few campers spending the night at Anawangin (Photo by Jes)
The river, pine trees and mountains of Anawangin (Photo by Jes)
Cooling down at noontime
So, what’s different about Anawangin today?
1. Campers. Lots of them. Especially on weekends.
Hundreds of people flock the place on weekends, especially during summer. Since it’s just a few hours away from Manila, it means its cheaper to go there. I think the group deals on the internet also contributed to this increasing influx of local tourists, thanks to online marketing and selling.
I’ve always thought Anawangin to be a recluse to those who want to retreat from the busy life in the city. There’s no phone signal. No electricity. No hotels. No comfort rooms. It’s just you, the sea, the pine trees and the river – the perfect place for a retreat.
I’m not sure if you could still do that there, unless you go there on weekdays.
2. Garbage. Plastic. Everywhere.
The moment I stepped out of the boat in Anawangin, I wanted to dip in the water. I remembered the clear blue waters from four years ago. Sadly, I got disappointed when I saw plastic trash, along with oil coming from boats, floating on the water. The water at the center of the cove was murky and dirty and filled with trash. We tried to swim, but we ended up doing a clean-up drive instead. The waters were cleaner and clearer at the sides of the cove.
The comfort and bath rooms could clearly not accommodate all the campers. The queues were long, and some campers were insensitive with it as if they’re using their bathrooms at home. Shampoo sachets were all over the ground. Good luck with caring for the environment. 😦
On a lighter note, I love that Capones Island has “grown” a new white sandy shore where it was rocky before. It was there that I enjoyed swimming. The water was clear and there were corals and fish near the shore. I just hope that people and capitalism would not rob the place of its beauty.
Float On
Anjel floating in one of the islands in Sorsogon
My mind is weary from the busy-ness of the city. But I always find solace in the gentle swells of the sea. All I want to do is float my tired body along the clear blue waters and drown the world’s noise. I love listening to the faint sound of the waves softly crashing on the shore. It keeps me calm and serene, and sort of detaches me from the world. Too bad, there’s no sea in my city to comfort me, and only recorded sounds of the sea keeps me company at night after the day’s work.
The Sea
The midday sun was scorching hot that day. It bit my skin so hard I can still feel its sting everytime I close my eyes and recall it. My sunburned face constantly reminds me of the pain I tried to suppress. The knowledge that I let my one chance slip away keeps gnawing at me up to this day.
The sea gives and the sea takes away. Whatever it gives, hold it dearly in your heart. And when it takes, be ready to let go less the sea takes you with it until you find yourself lost in its deep blue waters.
Lessons from a Little Girl Named Jaja
My wristwatch told me it was 11:00pm. I had been at the Florida bus station since 9 in the evening, afraid I might miss the bus because of the terrible traffic along Quezon Avenue. My bus finally arrived so I climbed up and took my seat. It was the last seat on the extra bus that day. If it were not for that last seat, I would have waited until midnight or the next day just so I could go home and be with my family for the Holy Week.
I was glad to be seated at the second row. Most of the time, I travel alone when I go home to the province. I wondered who my seat mate would be that night and I prayed it wouldn’t be a guy who might turn out to be a maniac. That’s when I met her.
“What’s your name?” I asked her.
“Jaja,” she replied.
“Hi, Chacha!” I happily welcomed her.
“It’s not Chacha. It’s Jaja,” she blurted out.
“Oh, sorry. Hi there, Jaja!” I repeated my greeting. And that started our interesting conversation.
Jaja is 6. In fact, she told me it was her birthday that day. “Happy birthday!” I greeted her. “Thank you po,” she shyly replied.
She was with her Tita Bing and her girl friend, and just like me, they were bound for Laoag for the Holy Week.
“Naku! Lagot ka diyan kay Jaja, sobrang daldal niyan,” her aunt warned me of Jaja’s talkativeness. I told her I didn’t mind although when I travel, I usually don’t talk to my seatmates. My iPod and books are my constant travel companions. That night, I turned off the iPod and closed my book and decided to talk to Jaja. It turned out to be one of my best encounters with God.
Jaja was really talkative, just as her tita warned. She kept telling me stories about her toys, her playmates, her relatives. In between, she asked me numerous questions like where I was going and what I was going to do when I got home. Sometimes, I didn’t know how to answer her questions so I just smiled and nodded to her.
Out of nowhere, I asked her if she was going to miss her mom during her vacation. Nonchalantly, she told me her mom was already gone. Jaja said she was named after her mother – Juanita Antonia – because she died after giving birth to her. I was speechless for an entire minute. I didn’t know what to say and I stupidly stammered, “Do you know how she looked like?” She told me her father used to show her her mom’s picture which he kept in his wallet. I asked Jaja if she’s going to miss her dad. Her reply shocked me to my core. “Patay na po si Papa. Naaksidente po siya sa motor,” she announced, as if her father’s death did not bother her…but I know it did and she was hiding her sadness in the way she smiled. She became silent for a while. At that moment, all I wanted was to be in my room and release the tears that had been threatening to fall from my eyes. I gathered up the courage to comfort her, “Okay lang yun, andiyan naman si Tita Bing mo. Siya na lang magiging mama at papa mo.” It was a stupid statement, and she told me, “Hindi ko naman po siya mama.” I never dared to reply back. Then, there was that awkward silence again.
Her Tita Bing saved me when she told Jaja to sleep since it was almost 1am. I seconded her. I told Jaja we’d better sleep because everyone at the bus was already asleep except for the two of us. Her tita handed her her teddy bear. Jaja told me she couldn’t sleep without it. I asked her if she ever prayed at night. She told me she didn’t. I told her we we’re going to pray before we slept, and that she only needed to repeat after me. I closed my eyes and travelled back to my childhood, recalling back the prayer that I prayed every night then.
Angel of God, my Guardian dear, to whom His love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
Jaja stammered the words after me, but she was smiling when I opened my eyes. After that, we said our good nights.
The bus had become icy cold, and I asked Jaja if she felt cold since she was only wearing her favorite pink jumper dress. She said she was, and asked her tita for her jacket. However, they found out that Jaja’s jacket was left behind. She gave Jaja a large t-shirt instead. I knew that this would not keep her warm. I, myself, was already shivering. She kept stirring in her seat. She was holding her teddy bear like I would hug my mom when i was cold. So I decided to share my sarong with her, hoping it would make her feel warm and more comfortable. “Thank you po,” she said with eyes half-closed.
I smiled at her but I quickly turned to look out the window into the dark, cloudy night. I cried. I couldn’t hold back the tears anymore. I cried for a while. I couldn’t sleep. The entire conversation with Jaja slowly sank in. I remembered my mom and dad. I realized how lucky I was that I still have my parents with me… that they are still alive, though getting older. I felt really blessed knowing that I had a mother and father who took care of me as I was growing up, who saw to my needs, and who were there during all the birthdays and milestones in my life.
I used to feel so afraid just thinking about my mom and dad and other loved ones passing away. I could not even try to imagine my life without them. I always prayed to God not to take them away from me too soon. That night, I suddenly felt a coward compared to 6-year old Jaja beside me.
Jaja is a brave and strong girl. Young as she is, she has already experienced far greater trials that I had in my entire 28 years of existence. Before I finally convinced myself to sleep, I prayed for that little girl sleeping soundly beside me. I prayed that she would grow up healthy and strong. I prayed that God will give her good people who will guide her well. I prayed that she will understand all the things that happened in her life as part of God’s wonderful plan for her. I prayed hard for the best for Jaja.
When I got home that day, I rushed to hug my mom and dad, silently thanking God that I still have them with me.
Donsol Getaway Day 2: My Encounter with the Gentle Giant
After the lovely night with the fireflies of Ogod River during our Day 1 in Donsol, my travel buddies and I were all so excited to see the famous Butandings (Whale Sharks) of Donsol, Sorsogon. I was pretty hyped up because this day marked the fulfillment of one of my travel goals – swim with a Butanding.
We got up early since the staff at the Donsol Tourist Center told us to be there at 7am so we can join the first batch of boats heading out to sea. We arrived earlier than that but when we got there, the place was teeming with tourists – mostly foreigners – all waiting for that chance to get a glimpse of the Butandings (dubbed as the Gentle Giants). According to the locals, a lot of these foreigners keep coming back for days just to swim with these giant but gentle sharks. Good thing we already registered the day before so we didn’t have to go through the orientation anymore. When our BIO (Butanding Information Officer) arrived, we got our gears ready. Life jacket – check! Snorkeling gear – check! Flippers – check!
Boat used for Butanding interactions
Kuya Egong, our BIO, told us as we headed out to the Donsol bay that there’s a 50/50 chance of seeing and interacting with a Butanding. I know that when we heard him say that, we all prayed in our hearts that we would. I silently prayed to be given that special opportunity to see and swim with an awesome creation. Finally, Kuya Egong briefed us on what we needed to do once the Spotter signaled the presence of a Butanding.
It took a while for the SPOTTER to spot a Butanding. By that time, there were already a lot of boats filled with excited tourists. We had to race from one place to another just to get close to a Butanding. But when we got really close, they would dive deeper into the sea. I prayed, “Lord, just give us one chance to see your precious Butanding.” My prayers were immediately answered as our Spotter finally called the attention of the BIO.
Mr. Spotter
“Ready, set, jump!” shouted the BIO. The small area in between the boats was crowded with swimmers. I jumped and looked down in search of the Butanding. Lo and behold, before me was the biggest fish I have ever seen live making its way across the Donsol sea, its mouth wide open ready to take in its food. Sadly, it was my first time to use flippers and the one I rented was so big that I had a hard time catching up with the Butanding. Even so, I was happy that I was finally able to swim with a whale shark.
When we got back to the boat, I silently hoped for another chance to see another Butanding. And yes, my wish was granted! I got to swim with these sea creatures for two more times. During the 2nd time, I still tried to wear those huge flippers hoping I’d be better at it this time around. However, it only slowed me down. I watched as the Butanding swam past me, while I continued to struggle with the flippers. I didn’t even see where my friends were anymore. All I saw in front of me was a tangle of legs and bubbles. All of a sudden, an angel in yellow and black diving suit came to my rescue. He must have noticed that I was struggling so he grabbed my arm and pulled me forward. When I realized what was happening, I looked down and saw that the Butanding was right in front of us. The guy kept pulling me forward and guiding me where the Butanding was. That was the best 1 minute of my Donsol trip. Whoever he was, I never got the chance to thank him, but I’m pretty sure I will always remember him whenever I see a Butanding.
The BIO
Though tired, I was very grateful to God for allowing us to see and swim with the Butanding. Other tourists seemed to not get tired as they went back into the water again and again just to see a whale shark. Once was enough for me. It was a bonus that I got to see it thrice. Sadly, I didn’t get a chance to take a photo of it but it is enough that it will forever be etched in my memory.
The sunset that day was exceptionally beautiful – one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life. Again, I was reminded of the great love God has not just for me but for His entire creation. Thank you, Lord, for the wonderful life and world you’ve given me.
Tips before you go swimming with the butandings in Donsol:
1. Make sure it’s the season for whale sharks in the area.
2. Don’t use flippers if you’re not used to it. Or better yet, practice first.
3. Check that your snorkeling gear is in great condition. Make sure it doesn’t have leaks or anything, especially if you’re just renting one from the resort or tourist center.
4. If you’re not a good swimmer or if you don’t know how to swim at all, stay close to the BIO or ask him to hold you.
5. Always be ready once you’re on the boat. When the BIO says JUMP, don’t hesitate and just jump!
6. Don’t be too greedy. Let others have their chance, especially if there are a lot of tourists wanting to see the Butandings, too.
7. Please, please, please follow the guidelines and code of conduct when swimming with the Butanding..
There you go! If you’re planning on heading to Donsol or any other place with Butanding sightings, I hope you will have a great time interacting with them. Have fun!
Donsol Getaway Day 1 – A Date with the Fireflies
As a child, I had been fascinated with fireflies. There was this place along the road in our town where these little creatures would glow in the darkness of night. I loved spotting them amidst the bushes and plants.
When Ate Che was arranging our itinerary to Donsol, I saw that there was Firefly Watching in the list. I was ecstatic! I felt this was going to be one of my most memorable trips ever.
(I’m sorry it took me so long to continue this series as I was forced to concentrate on my acads. I know, school sucks during exams!)
So, let’s go back to Day 1.
After arrival and settling down in our resort, we paid the Donsol Tourist Center a visit to register.
Our first activity: Firefly Watching at Ogod River
At 6pm, we hailed a tricycle and headed to the Ogod River Tourist Center handled by the River Cruise and Firefly Watching Association.. And with much excitement, we climbed the boat assigned to us, together with our tour guide and captain. Alas, once on the boat, the tour guide told us not to expect that much because it was a full moon. The moon was actually so huge that night that it took my breath away. (Aside from sunsets, I also love clouds, stars and the full moons!)
Tip # 1: Make sure not to schedule the Firefly Watching on a full moon.
Look at how bright the moon was that night!
We didn’t have to use a flashlight. The moonlight literally lit up the night sky.
So, I was kind of disappointed… but I was still hopeful we could get a glimpse of those tiny little glowing creatures of the night. And surely, we got what we went there to see – hundreds and hundreds of fireflies crowding the branches of mangroves lining the river. I had but one word to say to the sight before me – AMAZING! The captain took us near the mangroves so we could take a closer look. All I wanted to do at that moment was to catch some and bring them home with me. But, I couldn’t. Because they’d die. So I just feasted my eyes on their bright little lights, savoring that moment with nature and God’s wonderful creations. We cruised the river some more and saw more fireflies along the way. And I was just so happy I forgot I was tired, hungry and sleepy. I left Ogod River and its fireflies with a smile on my face, praying that both won’t get affected by the continuous development in that area. I hope that when I go back, if I’d have another chance to, the river and its fireflies will still be there, thriving.
Tip #2: If you want to capture your moment with the fireflies on camera, bring a DSLR.
Now, this reminds me of another place teeming with fireflies – San Rafael Farm in Tacloban City, Leyte. They have a tree that turns fairytale-like at night because of the fireflies lighting it up. Make sure to visit this picturesque garden restaurant when you’re in Tacloban and enjoy their great food!
Check out Day 2 of Donsol Getaway here!
P.S. Check out these really cool facts about fireflies:
Fireflies, also called lightning bugs, are neither flies nor bugs – they are actually beetles!
Fireflies can be seen in all continents, except in Antarctica
Fireflies are the world’s most efficient light producers. All 100% of the energy goes into making light, without generating heat. Now, that’s something we could use to combat global warming!
A firefly spends most of its lifespan as a larva. In the adult form, it survives for a very short span. The main aim of an adult firefly is to find a mate and lay eggs before dying.
Fireflies produce light for three reasons – attracting mates, warning predators and telling other fireflies of danger.
Head to these sites for more fun facts:
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/
But hey, did you know that the population of fireflies is slowly dropping? I, for one, have not seen fireflies in areas where I usually spotted them when I was a child. This is because fireflies are sensitive to disturbances in their habitat. They are usually found in moist environments such as swampy areas, fields, lawns and at the edges of woods or streams, so if we don’t stop cutting down trees everywhere and turning fields and woods into subdivisions, we might not be able to see fireflies in the near future.
So, check out this website for a list of what you can do to help fireflies and prevent them from disappearing.
Thoughts from the Toilet Bowl
February 20, 2011 ~ 10:30PM ~ Paraclete Renewal Center, Tacloban City, Leyte
Oh, what a great day this has been! I consider myself blessed to be in the midst of amazing and wonderful people. It is just so heartwarming to witness and hear stories of learnings, gratefulness, and transformation… of simple, often unnoticed people taking baby steps to confidence… of life lived well and good… of lost dreams and new ones. I love the delicious food and lovely chit-chats with new acquaintances and most of all the beautiful full moon and night sky full of stars! I truly deeply love this life!
Today, I also learned many things about life from someone who’s living it to the full. I certainly look forward not just to a happy and contented life, but a life of learning from mistakes and wrong turns, of forgotten dreams and new adventures. Best of all, I want to live my life giving glory to the One who created me.
Life is beautiful, if you see it that way. 🙂
Donsol Getaway Day 1 – The Arrival
Summer is here! At least for me and my travel mates. And what better way to kick-off this summer than with a trip to Donsol, Sorsogon to swim with the Butandings (Whale Sharks)!
Donsol Bay is one of the few areas here in the Philippines where Butandings are regularly seen (There are also sightings in Bohol, Palawan, Batangas, Leyte and Mindanao). Accordingly, the peak season for Butanding sightings is February to April. Our scheduled trip was just in time!
Armed with a backpack full of summer clothes for our 5-day trip, I was ready to forget about work and school and just enjoy the sun and the beach!
Day 1. The Arrival
To get to Donsol, you can either: a) take a plane to Legazpi City, then ride a van to Donsol; or b) take a bus straight to Donsol. Good thing we got a Cebu Pacific promo fare from Manila to Legazpi about a month ago so we didn’t have to endure to grueling 12-hour bus ride. We took the first flight at 6:05 am since we wanted to maximize our first day. It was a bit difficult to wake up that early considering I barely slept that night ( barely, meaning 30 minutes). I made it a point to finish my paper for school because I didn’t want to have to think about it or do it while I was on vacation.
Thankfully, our flight didn’t get delayed so we arrived there before 7 am. Sleep deprived that I was the night before, I slept throughout the flight and missed seeing Mt. Mayon from above (which I also missed in my previous travels to Legazpi). But, as I stepped out of the plane, I was refreshed just seeing the majestic Mayon volcano.
One of our travel companions booked for the next flight at 7:55 am so we decided to have breakfast first while waiting for her. The tricycle driver took us to Kim’s Bowl where we had breakfast and coffee.
My first Tocilog during this trip
Sadly, the next flight got delayed by an hour. Finally, after three hours of waiting, we were all set for the 1.5-hour travel to Donsol, Sorsogon. You can take a taxi to Donsol but it’ll cost you a few thousand pesos so best take a van since it only costs P75 each. At about 1pm, we arrived in Donsol. The van even brought the six of us to our resort for only P100. I was so exhausted from the trip that I decided to take a short nap before we started our 1st day activities.
At 3pm, we went to the Donsol Tourism Center to register for our Whaleshark Interaction the next day. A BIO (Butanding Interaction Officer) showed us a video orientation about Butandings and the rules in interacting with them.
At the Donsol Tourism Office
As always, I find it super awesome to watch the sun go down by the sea. So, here are some of my sunset shots at Donsol.
We stayed at AGM Beachfront Resort. They have really nice and attentive staff and clean rooms. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay, this is the right place for you. There’s no TV, no WIFI, no videokes. It’s just you and the beach. Plus, they also organize tours for their guests. I give a thumbs up for Ate Mae and all the staff of AGM.
By 6pm, we headed to the Firefly Watching Tourism Center in Ogod River for our date with the fireflies. Check out my next post to know more about firefly watching in Donsol.
Overall, our first day in Donsol was great! That night, I went to bed looking forward to swimming with the Butandings.
Always The Hero
Check out this inspiring story.
Dens’s heart pounded in his chest as he raced through the streets. The world around him seemed to be concerted in its opposition of his desperate sprint; wind and rain lashed at his face, and a tide of people gushed at him, barring his objective. He bobbed and weaved through the hurried throngs left faceless before images of family and loved ones flashing through his mind. Halfway through dinner, just minutes before, Dens had heard the Cagayan River had swollen to levels that threatened the community at Isla de Oro. Without second thought, Dens dropped everything and rushed for home. Every conceivable obstacle stood before him, and he didn’t know just what he’d find, but Dens was determined to save his family and his young lady friend, Nica.
Adversity has been no stranger to Dens. In his experience, life’s strewn all sorts of obstacles in his path since childhood, though…
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Of March Travels and Sunsets
I haven’t had the time to write about my travels, photos and experiences this month. School requirements has taken its toll on me. Thankfully, next week is already finals week so I’m excited to get back to blogging. For the mean time, let me give you a glimpse of my Donsol-Legazpi trip last weekend.
ilovesunsetsbythesea 