“Christmas is a day of meaning and traditions, a special day spent in the warm circle of family and friends." ― Margaret Thatcher This is our second year of celebrating Christmas together as family. This year’s theme is Royal blue which represents superiority, elegant, rich, sophisticated and intelligent. We are not just an ordinary graduate school classmates we are different to what are the usual professional acquaintances, Superiority in expressions of love and friendship, we love and respect each other, and our personality fits perfectly. We are rich in love, esteem, joyfulness and dreams. We execute elegant for this event which corresponds on how valuable we are to each other. Sophisticated as we believed that we are cultivated with our wide experiences, we are smart and intelligent in our ways. Standing from left: Francis Jose S. Pillejera (Franjo) , John Arvin Casitas (Arvin) , Michael Quizon (Mikee) , Louisito Limbo (Louie) , Joselito B. Jordas (Tolitz)' Kenneth Carl B. Fortaleza (Ken) and Michael D. Leano (Mikz) Seating from left: Rutchille Dimalanta (Ruth) , Trisha Terso (Trish) , Chenee Rose Ann Ygar (Chenee) Krisandra Pangilinan Dadulla (Sandra) and Ashley Casimero (Ash)
Earlier as November 2013 we started to plan this event, our venue is the same as last year. Unit 506, 5th Floor, West Tower, One Archers Place, Taft Avenue, Vito Cruz, Manila. This year’s party were made possible thru e-plan – we organized this online. Using Facebook, electronic mail and short multimedia messaging.
it's party time! The party host is Chenee and the Games Masters are Sandra and Ken, the Best Attire of night in-charge and prizes is Mikz and Trish. The First Game is Cake Relay. Participants are Mikz, Louie, Ruth – the only girl to compete, Franjo and Tolitz. The players will eat the cake using their lips only. The first one that will finish eating everything in the plate will be the winner. Tolitz, the winner of cake relay. Aha! the most expert in eating of something using only his lips? Good job! The second game is Ice cubes relay. The Participants are divided into two teams with 5 members. Members of team A are Ash, Rhyan, Trish, Mikee and Ruth. The Team B are Chenee, Dennis, Arvin, Louie, Franjo and Mikz. 5 pieces of ice cubes are provided for each team. Each member of the team will melt the ice cubes as quickly as they can. They can rub it between their hands or their clothes, or in any parts of their body except the mouth. The first team to melt the ice will be the winner. Team A, the winner, certified liquefying expert! The third game is Cup pyramid with the twist relay. The participants are split into two teams with five members. Team A are Chenee, Ash, Dennis, Tolitz and Franjo. Team B are Trish, Arvin, Ruth, Arvin and Mikee. For each team, there are 5 cups with liquors in it and a plate of spicy chips. Each member of the team will drink the liquor and overturn the empty cup, then eat some chips until his mouth will be empty. Once done, the next member of the team will do the same. The overturned cups should be form pyramid by the last player and the plate of chips should also be empty (so, it’s up to the team to collaborate how they could divide the chips for them). Team A, certified drinker and spicy lover! The Forth game is Charade. Two teams will compete in this game. Each team compose of 6 members. Team A are Ken, Trish, Ash, Arvin, Dennis and Sandra. Team B are Rhyan, Mikee, Ruth, Louie, Franjo, Tolitz. The category of this game is Filipino movies. In 3 minutes, the member of the team will act the word composition while the other members of the team will guess the title of the movie he acted. Team B, the best actors and actresses! Franjo: yeaaah! The Fifth game is Who is it?. Everyone in the house can join the game except the game Masters Ken and Sandra. The group will form a circle. The player will be blindfold at the centre of the circle (We select the player by giving the higher number over the participants e.g. there are 12 participants, we give 23, each member will count 1 up to 23. The 23rd will be the player). The participants will rotate, once the game master says stop, the player will ask the person in front of him “Who is it?” the person will answer but in the weird voice. Then the player will guess who that person in front of him is. The winners are those who guess the person! Who is it? winners are Tolitz, Mikz, Chenee and Ruth The sixth game – the last one is 7-up! . The game is for everyone in the house. Oh, this is kindda uneasy to describe. Let say I was the one who start the game, I will say “one” while putting my right hand in my heart/chest, then the next person at my left side will say “two”. The person at my left side who will say “two” will either use his left or right hand for directional purposes. If he choose his left hand, naturally, the person who will say “three” is me, but if he will choose his right hand, the next person in his left will say “three” and so on, until 7th, that will put it on top of the head. Same thing “direction” wherever it points out, the next person will start again on “one” Hope I describe this clearly. The one who will make a mistake will be out of the game until the two will compete. One will be declared as winner. Mikz won! the exchange gifts delicious food we shared ..all i can say is wow! may letter pa! (pero ako yung ginising ninyo para mag close ng pinto?! hehehe) you're very much welcome guys! and we are happy that you joined this group. Morning bond
Merry Christmas and Happy new Year everyone!
Pick your cups. Cheers!
1 Comment
A celebration of food, drinks and music! Christmas is a time to celebrate the love of God for us! This year's committee for our Department Christmas Party were all boys. From left : Vergilio Lerin Jr., Marlon Burayag, Ken Fortaleza and Niño Noel Reyes December 20, 2013, we started our party at 6:30pm, the food feast at Dads Saisaki Kamayan- West Avenue. The Dads Cross over buffet, with over 200 foodstuff from Filipino, Japanese, Mediterranean and Chinese cuisine. December is peak season, so to make everything smooth, we reserved the venue 1 month before our scheduled party. Arrived earlier at Dad's. The waiter politely guided me to the reserved area, Very good customer service. Yay! the letter "F" was missing in my family name.. LOL confirmed! it was really for me... anyway, "it sounds like" assuming it's just silent F. (Pag-pilitan natin yan!) The dinner started while the lady singer of Dad's sang Katy Perry's "Roar" so it was really fun. Her rendition was nice to hear, her voice was amazing and in-fairness she is updated with her music! "I got the eye of the tiger, The dinner was good, everyone were satisfied and fully charged! After our abundant dinner we proceed to Songbook KTV and Sports Bar, Victoria Towers for our program and bonding as well. We prepared surprises for the girls and for our Boss, Ms. MC --The birthday girl! -A birthday cake with matching party poppers.. aha! celebración engrande! and also, to make a difference, we gave them roses as we performed the new directions "you don't know your beautiful" ----a wrong direction version of the song? "yes! wrong direction!" hahah but i believed we'd entertained them. Other than roses, we handed our department's gift to Ms. MC -A gift certificate at the Spa. >>>Because she deserves to relax and rejuvenate. Our simple gift was 90 minutes executive Aromatherapy for two. The Aromatherapy blends elevate the classic Swedish massage into an experience that renews the spirit. Seek Balance, Energy, or Serenity. (the spa website http://www.thespa.com.ph) Well, the girls also had their dance number .. Pitbull featuring Christina Aguilera's "Feel this moment" and the harlem shake? ...hmmm a zumba dance and "whatever steps".. hahaha >>> nice one girls! Our CFO Sir Roy Joined us and also had fun in our Games. The all time favorite Pinoy henyo, balloon relay, and there's more.... Guess the song title who made the night extra gleeful. We had category like places as "Cabanatuan".. (na hindi nahulaan..), Things as "Keyboard" vegetable as "Kalabasa" ..and many more in our Pinoy henyo game. An extra fun during the balloon relay. ...the room was surrounded with laughter as Sabina tried to pop the balloon. Imagine? Sab tried to push the balloon and then she slides in it (toink!) and tried again to push and slides (Toink! again!) and nothing happens... fun! fun! fun! Abegail as Ms. Rosa's tried to push the balloon against her, Abi's body stretched (wooooht!) and stretched (wooooht!) and stretched (woooooooht!) . (kailangan na ni Abi, mag pataba para tumibay..hahaha) and also nothing happened until? ...Games master Nino, did something to the balloon, he actually, squeezed it in favor of Sab and Abi! >>>(medyo-madaya!) peace! hahaha ('Wag ka na mag protesta, magkalaban sila Sab at Abi, so this is fair! hahah) The simplest one was.. "Guess the song title" it was easy with Ges's group (intro palang Alam na?!) but to Ms. Bhing's group? well, they also received a consolation.. hahah Also, we'd smashed up with exciting prizes, giveaways and special raffles! everyone got one, and others who were lucky that night? ...got more gifts. Big thanks to our Sponsors! Wrong direction with our gorgeous boss Ms. MC --the birthday girl! The best Attire of the night - Selected by Ms. MC and Ms. Cel From left: Ken, Charmaine, Bhing and Vergel The Financial Planning and Accounting family From right: Nino Noel L. Reyes (Nino) , Kenneth Carl B. Fortaleza (Ken), Ma. Gesselle Francisco (Ges), Ms. Milarosa T. Perez (Rosa) , Ms. Criselda T. Solidum (Cel), Ms. Taciana Realizo (Ana), Ms. Elvira D. Matubis (Bhing), Ms. MC Celis (MC), Ms. Aurora Bico (Au), Ms. Marivic Parafina (Vicky), Abegail Gonzales (Abi), Charmaine Ambalada (Shamie), Sabina Dango (Sab) , Sir Roy Coloquio, Cathy C. Caleda (Kathy). Front from left front: Ms. Mary Jane D. Meman (Ga), Virgilio Lerin Jr. (Virgel), Marlon Burayag (Marlon) and Sir Antonio Cabral (Tony) Thank you to Financial Planning and Accounting family for the support and for participating in our games! To our officers, Ms. MC (the birthday girl), Ms. Cel, Sir Tony, Ms. Rosa and Ms. Au. To my co-Committee who helped me prepared everything. The games Master Nino Noel; The materials expert Vergel and The creative Marlon for our invitations. 2013 invitation by Marlon You guys did great!
Good job! Special thanks to the Manager of Songbook who give us 30 minutes of preparation and another 30 minutes extension for free. 12:15am, December 21, 2013. We ended the party with a big smile. It was truly a merry Christmas for us! the idea After all our efforts and sacrifices another semester ended. Full of learning's, self fulfillment, accomplishments and fun! because of this, everyone deserves a break! d' assembly We discuss our plan during the semester particularly in our favorite subject "the coffee masters 101" in Mcdonalds, Recto. Ruthie suggest her Tiyo's place in La Union. Because she is "Ate" to us, "agad-agad" everyone chose La Union. (oi, minsan lang 'to nag-o-offer, so GO agad! hahah) escape choices Originally, it was Laoag city but due to many many considerations we look for another best location. Other options are Nagsasa cove, Anawangin cove both in Zambales, and Lake Pandin in San Pablo, Laguna. Soon, we will visit all this breathtaking spots if God will permit us. ultimate destination San Manuel Sur, Agoo, La Union. La Union is the surfing capital of Northern Luzon. It is located in the Ilocos Region whose capital is San Fernando City and borders Ilocos Sur to the north, Benguet to the east, and Pangasinan to the south. To the west of La Union is the South China Sea. - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Union Organized by Ruth, budget proposed by Louie, audited by Ken (ma-isingit lang!), will not forget the ever aggressive and most excited group coordinator, Mikz and everyone who do their responsibilities as team. Everyone are excited because this is the first time that the group are “almost” complete, 99%. and first time for us to travel with Trish, Sandra and Kreann. As agreed we scheduled the travel on April 5 to 7, 2013. The Meeting place was Starbucks located in sky garden, SM North Edsa at 10 pm but we were complete at around 11:45 pm. We leave North Edsa at 12 Midnight. Aboard in Tolitz’s Isuzu Crosswind are Mikz, Louie, Ford, Mikee, Ruth, Anna and ME. We started the trip by Prayer lead by Anna. ***while the 3 gentleman at the back seat (Ford, Mikz and Louie) are getting busy playing the current generation epidemic game the Candy Crush Saga! In Karl’s Toyota Altis are Kreann, Trish Sandra, and Ryan (seems that couples were here? ooooppps! Trish was with them? aha! behave! ***peace!). house rules Nobody will sleep, otherwise you will be auto ejected from the coupé High-tech diba?! kaya! matatakot ang matutulog! This is also the mere reason why Fordie was super energetic all night! Everybody are required to support Tolitz and Karl (as our life is in their hands throughout). ***with exception to Anna sleep mode ang peg! Tolitz: "...wala ba tayo madadaanan na Mcdo?" (sign na inaatok) this serves also as switch for sleepy Mikz to be activated again! (syempre naman, isang idlip lang, alam na kung ano kasunod!) Tolitz got more than 5 cups of coffee that night! Woooh! kaaaappppeeee pa pre, salap! salap! LOL. Praise God, we are Safe! singing career on the road Dawn of April 6, 2013, somewhere in SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway). We took heed of the music sung by the "new artist" for we are the world? (may bagong singer daw?) This is the new list (Only us knows this?) "We Are The World" Artists (feat. Akon, Barbra Streisand, Bizzy Bone, Busta Rhymes, Carlos Santana, Celine Dion, Drake, Enrique Iglesias, Fergie, Foxx, Iyaz, Jamie Foxx, Janet Jackson, Josh Groban, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Kid Cudi, L.L. Cool J, Lil Wayne, Lionel Richie, Maroon 5, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas, Nicole Scherzinger, Orianthi, Pink, Quincy Jones, Snoop Dogg, Sugarland, Swizz Beatz, T-Pain, Will.I.Am and Wyclef Jean) and Ford Laser de Dios? a multi-tasking disc jockey On-board DJ is Mikee. However, survey shows that most of the listener's request was not played. most music are undone, most are forwarded and forwarded and forwarded.. ***makasariling DJ ito! >>>Because of this? Listeners planned to boycott in Mendiola. Hala! He was also our road sign reader. ***kaya pagod much? tour guide career in action As agreed, Ruth will be our guide.
uncontrolled excitement An hour before Agoo, we open the windows to relish the fresh air. Side by side are green valley bounded by mountains. Ford was sleeping during this time "low bat" after his dawn concert on board. Mikz's dynamic energy was reactivated. ***Si Anna ang pinag-tripan! Mikz: ...Anna, dapat sa bubong ka eh! ***walang effect. Anna on sleep mode. and later si Ruth;
d' arrival Though the place is really far away from the town. It was cool, you will be mesmerized by the fascinated views while passing-by. Upon arrival Tiyo, Tiya and Gradma express their warm welcome to us, they introduced us to Manang Lina, who will assist us in our stay. Tiya's Curiosity Mikee was in the front seat. Tiya: ...may kasama pala kayong bata? Ruth: Ay, hindi po 'yun bata, Tiya! Si Jun-jun! 30 years old na, napagkakamalan parin bata. Saan ka pa?! hahaha! embracing the place Immediately upon arrival, we settle our things and proceed to the shore. d' menu While others are sleeping Louie, Anna, Ruth and I proceed to Agoo market to buy ingredients. Agoo Market is nice. Fruits, vegetables, meat and fish were placed in the 2nd floor. Other products in the ground floor. They have very accommodating vendors. Vegetables and tropical fruits are cheap, fish and other varieties of sea foods are less expensive. cooking time Master chefs are Ruth and Mikz, assistants are Louie, Me and Anna. During dinner, the grilled liempo and hotdog was prepared by the expert, Ryan assisted by the boys, Henrico, Dudong and Ben. taste the specialties Good thing with the group is that, we enjoy each others company. ***maliban sa wala namang choice? Everybody are cooperative, "walang arte, kahit ano e-prepare at e-serve na food". And "as always" we need more rice for our bunso, Fordie, nag papalusog ito. Full support kami dyan. Good Job kitchen masters! Eating scene:
the perfect tree Near the house there is perfectly shaded tree. Her lovely green leaves are artistically formed like green hill. She is one of the group's favorite photo shot background. ..because most of the ladies had chose to pose in the perfect tree. To make a difference, Mikz chose this tree as his background. let's have some fun at the sea shore Most people may agree that Summer is incomplete without going to the beach. Swimming or immersing into the heat of summer sunshine (for those who want to be tan) It is nice also to listen to the natural sound of water in the shore, this sensation relaxes our minds. The delighting nature scene and the cool summer air are also perfectly equates for us who's purpose of being here is to feel free out of our usual life in the metro. sand mark Here is Ford's master piece. blueberry cheese cake Other than airing schedules in TV5, Sandra has new advocate in life. Baking. ***aha! Sounds classy! Way back, we ask her to bake for us to know if she will tickle our taste bud. Yet she made us to wait for too long... to the extent that we even forgot her promise to bake for us in December (without year). But because it was their Anniversary (Ryan and Sandra). ***kilig-nginig-kilig! December without date was changed to April 2013. She made us a round shaped blueberry cheese cake, full of inspiration, sweetness and happiness. Gently wrapped with cabalistic symbol which she is the only one who knows what it is deep inside her heart? A cake of passionateness and love (wagas lang kung maka-describe!) ***but the beautiful rounded shaped blueberry cheese cake becomes like waxing gibbous moon shaped when we arrived in San Manuel because someone stepped on it! itago nalang natin sya sa pangalang FLD. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Sandy and Ryan! more stories sooner..watch out!
The Photographers February 24, 2013 was set date for the lens day. F.y.i. to those who did not know the best and groovy (they are my family in the Graduate School) One Saturday class, we agreed that we are going to have a photo shoot in the best historical location near the metro. F.y.i again, we are not professional photographers nor models but we really assume ourselves that we are inborn models and photographers, woooopp! allow us to believe this?! who knows! someday, will come true, Right? LOL Sacrificing sleeping time Why I said sacrificing sleeping time? It is because we got up before sunrise! And also we want to witness Mr. Sun as He rises and as much as possible we need to avoid the big star’s heat which is usually hotter at 10:00am onwards! Mr. BeeBecause we are also jolly and we need to have more energy to take pictures and pose, we had breakfast with Mr. Bee. Photo shoot locationRizal ParkWho among us do not know this park? Because we are Filipino we know it by heart, right? Let us recall what was taught to us by our dear Teachers way back elementary and high school. Luneta was formerly called Bagumbayan or the new town. It is an ancient town set upon boggy land. It is strategically located 1.5 kilometer south of Manila. Approximately borders are Roxas Boulevard extension in front of old Luneta, P. Burgos St. to Pasig River down to San Luis St. who currently called T.M. Kalaw. In 1913, 17 years after Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s execution (December 30, 1896), the monument was completed. The statue was designed by the Swiss sculptor Richard Kissling who cast the bronze figure in Switzerland. The monument are guarded day and night by ceremonial soldiers, known as Kabalyeros de Rizal or Knights of Rizal. Rizal Park is the artifact of years of enthusiastic and meticulous efforts of thousands of known and unknown citizens who gave their time and labors to do something in Honor of our National Hero and our Country. Chinese Garden A 10 pesos entrance fee is inexpensive for you to enjoy this park. Highly recommended for photo shoot or if you want to take a quiet walk, or to chill with your friends. At the entrance you will notice the Chinese-style gate it has fixed dragons. Dragons for Chinese beliefs was regarded as the most sacred animal and the mythological symbol stands for happiness, immortality, procreation, fertility and activity. Inside the park, you may feel that you traveled somewhere in China. There is a man made lagoon and small lake. There is also gazebos designed with green-tiled roofs decorated with Chinese mythical stuff. Kalesa/Calesa or caritela/karitela Uniquely designed medium used as mode of transportation during Spanish era, No fuel nor electricity used to run, it is drawn by the Horse, An eco friendly means of transportation that still exist in Metro Manila specifically in Luneta and nearby streets and in some historical places like Loag and Vigan. The-Pick (selected photos) |
..the arrival ..cave number one, the magical crystal stone ..crystal clear water view from the top ..top of the hill art ..get wet in cool water of cave number 2 | ..the entrance ..cave number two, the bigger one ..the other side of the island ..cove's sister island ..the natural rock formation of cave number 2 |
Bring me to Puka beach
A very quite place located at the northern part of the island. If you want escape from the crowd Puka beach is the perfect place to chill and relaxation. It is also an ideal place for picnic. Puka beach has white sand stretch and it was very clean. You can buy accessories made of Puka shells from the local vendors in the beach area.
For our Creator
Every time that I have a chance to go somewhere that I never been, I always make sure that in my itinerary the part of it is to visit the place of worship -His Church. Just to thank Him for the graces and opportunity that He blessed me and to those with me and so with other personal intentions. The Holy Rosary Church of Boracay.
Finding food - dinner
We had dinner at Kolais Mangyan Fudhause. I tried their best seller Bulasing.
Bulasing is combination of Bulalo and Sinigang. "kakaiba" there is really a twist as you taste it.
Budbud beef - rice with beef toppings. There is no extra ordinary taste but it was good.
ended up - full stomach
Socializing at Cocomangas
Cocomangas shooter is one of the famous bar in the island, They are known for their shooter challenge - still standing after 15.
Local and foreign guest who successfully finished the 15 shoots, their name will be engraved and be posted in the bar's wall of fame. Winners has also complementary t-shirt with the statement "still standing after 15". 15 shoots will cost you 1,200.00 pesos.
It was also our time to bond with our new found friends.
Extreme ride
G1 ATV motor offers services for only 750.00 pesos per head.
We tried the extreme ATV motor ride to Mt. Luho. Everybody are excited to gear up!
Island ATV motor to Bugcar
To make sure the safety of the guest, you need to take the drive test before proceeding to the extreme ride. Our two girls did not make it for ATV motor so we are given Bugcar for the same price, strictly only Vhie and I will drive through-out. More practice girls next time, peace! hahaha
Bugcar was also good, its like driving an automatic car.
The Island's highest mountain
Mt. Luho was the highest peak in the island, Entrance fee was only 60.00 pesos. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the island once your reach the top.
To give the guest with more amazement of the scenery, there is bamboo deck at the peak of the mountain, made for guests to enjoy more the spectacular view.
If you want some adrenaline rush there is available zipline for only 700.00 pesos per person.
The taste of refreshing
After sun exposure, the Jonah's fruit shake and snack bar will satisfy your cold drinks excitement. Fruit shake combination such as banana-lemon, avocado, strawberry, mango and other fruits are available. Fruit shake will cost you 90.00 pesos to 120.00 pesos.
The best pick was bar's one best seller, the banana-choco-peanut. Love the taste.
d' Italian taste
Enjoy the Italian pizza and pasta at Don Vito Ristorante Italiano. A group of 4 budget of 1,000.00 to 2,000.00 pesos can enjoy this awesome foreign tasted meals.
The restu ambiance was nice and they have very accommodating crew.
Pizza was good, but the "creamy pasta carbonara" was my favorite? Would highly recommend this one, taste great!
..Sagada, Mt. Province is strategically located 170.88 miles north of Manila. There are many exciting and challenging activities Sagada has to offer spelunking, nature hikes, exploring cave, trekking and so on.
We leave Manila at around 10 pm, Thursday October 25, 2012 aboard at Dagupan bus to Baguio city. The weather was not fine due to Typhoon Ofel. So, we prayed to God for our safety on our way to our destination.
We leave Manila at around 10 pm, Thursday October 25, 2012 aboard at Dagupan bus to Baguio city. The weather was not fine due to Typhoon Ofel. So, we prayed to God for our safety on our way to our destination.
We reach Baguio city at around 4 am, Friday October 26, 2012. We took our breakfast at the Sab-atan restaurant besides the GL Liner bus station.
According to the restaurant attendant, Sab-atan means "meeting place".
I chose lomi, and the four of them chose noodle soup; beef for Ford and Chenee, lechon for Mikz, and chicken for Louie.
We got full stomach after the meal; ready for another long trip up to Sagada.
GL Liner has only 6 trips from Baguio to Sagada
6:00am first trip
7:00am second trip
8:00am third trip
10:00am fourth trip
11:00am fifth trip
1:00pm last trip
We took up the first Trip.
..it was funny that we are unaware with seat number started with letter "C"
Chenee: .."ito na, 5 tickets, tabi kami ni Ford, tapus tatlo kayo mag kakatabi."
..and finally she handed us the 3 "C" tickets.
>>inside the bus.
Mikz: .."saan kaya 'to?"
..Louie, Mikz and I, thoroughly look to the numbers written in the bus windows left and right up to the back part of the bus, we never find the "C" seats, and we thought that we were in the wrong bus.
..later we found out that "C" stands for Center Seats?!
Disaster! we really have to seat at the aisle, and it was hard! we could not back-out because we need to be in Sagada on time per itinerary.
The road was almost zero visibility. Fog and light rain sprinkled.
The road is not safe, because it was slippery and the vehicle path were side by side deep narrow steep-sided ('wag mo na pag isipan masyado kung ano yun, mabangin lang ang ibig kung sabihin! hahah), never seen anything but mountain and mountain and mountain.
Some part of the road were under repair some were rough road. So, imagine sitting in the aisle seat! good luck to our butt!
...I admire the drivers of the buses because I find it hard and dangerous to control or to operate in that type of road. Bravo! many people were safe because of their expertise.
After approximately 7 hours of trip from Baguio, we finally arrived in SAGADA safe!
Finding Home
....The first thing we did was to find for a place to stay.
The George House extension were offered to us at very affordable rate, 250 per person per day.
The room was clean, with 3 beds, 1 comfort room with hot/cold facilities, wifi, cable television (sira nga lang yung cordon ng cable), with terrace that has a very good view, but do not expect an air condition because Sagada is cold place instead you will need a fireplace.
..because we want to be with each other together no matter what, instead we connect the two beds, and we put all our things in one bed. (it was really Mikz's idea to sleep together).
Ford said, we are so much comfortable with each other ...maybe because we are brothers' and sisters in our past! (Ano 'to nag reincarnate, tas nag meet ulit in 20th century?, mabuti nalang tao ulit kami hahaha) Truly, we are really super comfortable with each other.
The arrangement, from left Louie (with red blanket), me (dark pink blanket), Mikz (light pink blanket), Ford (yellow blanket) and our only Girl Chenee.(who captured this photo).
..we are the group of friends who never allows hunger! we have so much stacks of food (chips, bread, biscuits, candy etc.)
..Chenee are preparing sandwiches for her four boys!
Who are they? its me, Mikz, Ford and Louie; sweet princess!
Food trip in Sagada
..Food in Sagada are bit expensive, there are no food chains but restaurants. One thing I noticed was that they do not compete with each other, I mean, each restaurants has their own special food to offer. If guest are craving for specific food, then their is specific place to come.
We find the best, we tried the SALT AND PEPPER special chicken. It was great, the restaurant ambiance are great, accommodating staff but orders takes time (maybe because it was made upon order). Due to the cold weather our drinks hotness lapse immediately. Mikz and I got two rounds of hot chocolate drinks.
Dinner at the PINIKPIKAN HAUS
This was recommended by our tour guide Leo Aglolo. He said, we will forget our names when we tried it.
..Pinikpikan for Sagadans are flavorful dish of mountain province, Originally it was chicken but the one that was served to us was pork..an aged meat. Honestly I do not really like the taste of this dish. So Mr. Leo, was not right! I remembered my name very well! peace!
Mikz, Louie and Chenee did not appreciate this as well except Ford who loves it very much. Maybe each persons has different taste for food. Some like it and others do not like.
Vegetable serving in Pinikpikan Haus was overflowing!
..Pancit bihon was also good and I love the violet colored rice!
Breakfast at BANA'S CAFE AND RESTO
..the presentation of dish was good and the taste was excellent. "BANA" i wonder what does it mean? I never asked why BANA, (nandun na hindi pa nagtanong? toink!) but as I observed most of the food they served has Banana on it, so I assumed that it was BANA short for Banana. Soon, maybe someone will correct me on this.
The ambiance outside of this restaurant was nice, fresh air and nice view.
Desert at YOGHURT HOUSE
..Thumbs up to this place. The house ambiance is good also, we chose to take out our yogurt though the packaging is simple but it was the best yogurt I ever tasted (so far..) It was really great and only offered in Sagada, Philippines.
The Adventure
...We arrived in Sagada at pass 1 pm, after few minutes of rest, we take a bath and had some lunch at Salt and Pepper, then we ask the attendant where is the best place to find the tour guide, and she suggested that we can inquire in SAGGAS foot steps away from this restaurant.
Saggas is Sagada's Genuine Guides Association. They offer good package tour at very affordable price. For more details please visit their website at www.saggas.net.
It was already quarter to four when our tour begins.
..first stop, THE KISSING LIONS , it was a rock formation that seems like there are two lions kissing.
Then the the BURIAL CAVE in this cave the ancient Igorots piled the cadaver. Caskets are made of wood. According to our tour guide Leo, Sagadan's in the older times buried their dead in caves.
..Burial cave has also a path way to the connecting cave which we did not tried because it was risky.
Finally, for that day, was the most exciting one! spelunking at the SUMAGING CAVE.
...We arrived in Sagada at pass 1 pm, after few minutes of rest, we take a bath and had some lunch at Salt and Pepper, then we ask the attendant where is the best place to find the tour guide, and she suggested that we can inquire in SAGGAS foot steps away from this restaurant.
Saggas is Sagada's Genuine Guides Association. They offer good package tour at very affordable price. For more details please visit their website at www.saggas.net.
It was already quarter to four when our tour begins.
..first stop, THE KISSING LIONS , it was a rock formation that seems like there are two lions kissing.
Then the the BURIAL CAVE in this cave the ancient Igorots piled the cadaver. Caskets are made of wood. According to our tour guide Leo, Sagadan's in the older times buried their dead in caves.
..Burial cave has also a path way to the connecting cave which we did not tried because it was risky.
Finally, for that day, was the most exciting one! spelunking at the SUMAGING CAVE.
"Spelunking - practice of exploring the cave."
Almost dark when we arrived at the starting point, we leave our valuables at the store near the cave then our Tour guide begin to prepare our light.
The slippery trail - we need to hold on to the rock and assist each other to be safe going down. As we go, there is one movie that buffering inside my mind the 2011 adventured/drama film played by Richard Rozburgh, Rhys Wakenfields and Ioan Gruffudd the SANCTUM movie.So, I was bit afraid but I prayed that the scene in that movie will never happen to us.
Our tour guide had plenty of trivia's. He always start as "Hulaan nyo kung ano ito?" and we tried our best to guess, then later we surrender and says "hirit na kuya!".
The pigpens - according to Mr. Leo, during ancient times, people raise their pig in this pigpens inside the cave. The rock formation in the pigpen was elephant, a mother and young elephant.
We leave our slippers at one place. then, we walked barefoot.
As we move more deeper, our tiredness exchange to much more exciting adventure when we arrived in the center part of the cave.
The Queen - What do you think about the queen? It was not really a lady with a scepter and crown but it was a rock formation that looks like woman's reproductive tract.
The King - a male version of the queen. no need to explain. hahah Mr. Leo ask us, why he looks like it? we don't know the answer, and he said "malamig kasi kaya ganyan".
(Oh nag iisip ka nanaman? 'wag ka na, more stories pa. hahaha).
The Dinosaur foot print, and the Turtle head.
The curtain-like rock formation and the chocolate cake.
The Plan
I was blessed and happy that I finished my College on time.
I remember when I ask God for a job. I said, Dear God, please grant this immediately after my college graduation.
..I did my part as well ...applying 3 months before graduation day. Then, he answered!
During my final interview, I was asked, about my future plan, and I said, I wanted to take my masters degree if God permits. Though the plan was there but I was hesitant considering the expenses.
..I was hired in accounting department.
God granted my prayer. I was not able to rest after the graduation but I am happy and glad for having a job without delay.
My first day of work was April 16, 2007...That was the day after our commencement ceremony. During that time I was only 20.
July 2010 I was able to transfer from accounting department to financial planning and control.
My team mates - Financial planning and Control & Accounting
Standing from Left: Vergel, Ms. Mai, Ms. Vicky, Cathy, Ms. Rosa, Ms. Ana,
Ms. Cel, Ms. Adelfa, Ms. MC, Me, Ms. Au, Ges, Sir Roy, Ms. Jane,
Ms. Bhing and Erron.
In front from left: Glenah, Sabina, Ces and Raymon
Standing from Left: Vergel, Ms. Mai, Ms. Vicky, Cathy, Ms. Rosa, Ms. Ana,
Ms. Cel, Ms. Adelfa, Ms. MC, Me, Ms. Au, Ges, Sir Roy, Ms. Jane,
Ms. Bhing and Erron.
In front from left: Glenah, Sabina, Ces and Raymon
Every time that I am praying to God, I ask for wisdom and help to decide what to do.
Our dearly mentors, often asked me when to enroll? enlighten me about the essence of having a degree and encouraging me to enroll; This dearly mentors are my ever dearest teachers during college days, Dr. Renan Jolampong, Dr. Tina Neo, Dr. Annie de Belen, and Prof. Daniel Bayona...and I always told them, in Gods most perfect time, I am not yet financially ready.
Somebody also ask me, to go for it, He said, "do not worry about financials, there is always a way to have it". Start it, and you will not notice it you already have a degree.
"My undergraduate Professors"
From left: Ma'am Tina, Me, Sir RJ and Ma'am Annie
From left: Ma'am Tina, Me, Sir RJ and Ma'am Annie
The Decision
During my best friend's wedding last March 17, 2012, I was again reminded by my dearly mentors. That very moment, I decided to go with it.
...made me 5 years to decide.
I told my family and some friends regarding this decision, with very inspiring messages and positive response of my mama and my tita's and friends. I become more eager to enroll.
May 2012, I took the entrance examination in University of the East guidance office. We are more than 10 in the testing room; there was applicant for law, masters in public administration, teaching, business administration. Examination was not easy, time pressured.
After 5 days, I called the guidance office for the result, so dismay because I was advised that there are portion of exam that was accidentally forgotten to include and we need to take it that day. So I had to file an emergency leave.
After, taking the last part of examination, we proceed immediately to the graduate school for our interview. The persons that was with me, was Mikz Leano, Chenee Ygar, Trish Terso, and Mikee Quizon. We all pass the examination and interview and to that very day, we are officially enrolled in the Graduate school.
After, enrolling, we proceed to Jolibee-recto for our PM snacks. In that place, the story of NFF started.
After 5 days, I called the guidance office for the result, so dismay because I was advised that there are portion of exam that was accidentally forgotten to include and we need to take it that day. So I had to file an emergency leave.
After, taking the last part of examination, we proceed immediately to the graduate school for our interview. The persons that was with me, was Mikz Leano, Chenee Ygar, Trish Terso, and Mikee Quizon. We all pass the examination and interview and to that very day, we are officially enrolled in the Graduate school.
After, enrolling, we proceed to Jolibee-recto for our PM snacks. In that place, the story of NFF started.
The NFF
..Dr. Jolampong said in his text message, “..kamusta ang pag aaral mo? Tapusin mo yan ha.” And I replied, Yes po Sir I will. Then he said “..Dyan, you will meet a new friends, you will broaden your horizon.”
NFF meaning new found friends.
First day high! I am so excited to go to school. I was prepared the night before. It was like what I felt during my 1st day in kinder, grade 1, 1st year high school and 1st year college. So weird!
The 4 people that I had met during enrollment increased; here comes Krean Nobleza, Sandra Dadula, Ford de Dios, Louie Limbo, Caryl Co and others. We come from different industries. (..A nature of graduate school). They’d become my NFF.
From left: Chenee, Louie, Trish Ford, Mikz, Steph, and Me
Getting to know each other
Our first bonding moment was, 2nd Sunday of 1st semester, we had abundant lunch at Pizza hut and we played bowling in SM North Edsa and a videoke at Time Zone in Trinoma.
The second bonding was August 26, 2012, a Star city adventure, followed by heavy dinner at Dampa, Macapagal and we'd spent time in Sea side at SM Mall of Asia.
"frozen moment"
From left: Ford, Chenee, Me, Mikz, Kreane, Sandra and Mike
From left: Ford, Chenee, Me, Mikz, Kreane, Sandra and Mike
Laoag City
The City of Laoag - is a 1st class city in the province of Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It is the capital city of Ilocos Norte, and the province's political, commercial, and industrial hub. It is the location of the Ilocos region's only commercial airport. -http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laoag
What I love about Laoag was her environment - clean, very nice people, historical structures and infrastructure that continuously developing.
There are options to reach Laoag, you can travel via air and by land. I chose by land, cheaper and wanted to enjoy the view of the provinces. Traveling time is 10 to 14 hours. There are many bus companies from Manila bound to Laoag, example Partas and Florida transport. For Airlines, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.
Lodging
Check in at the La Elliana Hotel, it was very cheap, 800.00 per day. Old but clean, and hotel staff are very accommodating. There is 24 hours service elevator, telephone, air condition, small television (old model) and quite place. Few minutes tricycle ride from the bus station.
..Ang Pasko sa Laoag
I spend my 2011 Christmas in Laoag.
At night, sparkling and glistering lights are everywhere, Children are singing carol songs at the park.