Travelling Philippines: Baguio City

When we say Northern Philippines, Baguio City is the place where one must really see. It is considered to be the Summer Capital of the Philippines because of its cold weather. A place where you don't basically need an air conditioning unit in establishment. You can just simply go shopping without worrying about the warm weather which is typical in most islands of the Philippines.

The best time to go there is during the whole month of February as the city is celebrating the Panagbenga Festival (Flower Festival). I have seen most of the early part of the said event during my college days. That's 10 years ago? lol.

Panagbenga means “a season of blooming.” The word is a kankanaey word, a dialect mostly in some parts of Benguet and Mountain Province.

The festival highlights Floral Float parade where cars are adorn by flowers like Malaysian Mums, Antorium, Rose, orchids and the like. It also showcases the creativity of the local artist. Another highlight of the festival is the street dancing where it mesmerizes its spectators by the endowed students of Baguio City and the nearby provinces.

The festival will run for the whole month of February where each day the city government plots an activity where everyone would definitely enjoy. Other highlights include battle of the bands, local arts show, closing of Session road.

The closing of Session Road is one of my favorite since it is closed intended for shoppers. Affordable wood carves, flowers, food, clothes, and a lot more is offered on the said event.

Of course your visit to Baguio is not complete without visiting the other must see places of the summer capital of the Philippines.

First stop is the famous boat riding and other recreational activities The Burnham Park. One can enjoy, boat riding, or jogging along side the lake or one can bring their children at the children's park.

Another must see place is of course the Lourdes Grotto.

Mines View Park is also part of my must see list:

Then of course the majestic Baguio Cathedral: Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral located just above the Session road near SM Baguio.

I am also fascinated with the of course the culture and ways of living of the Igorots. Well I am one of them so I am proud. I am most proud with this next stop and a really must see place of Baguio City: The Tam-awan Village. This places focuses mostly in showcasing the Igorot's culture and the arts.

Going to Baguio is so easy. It is so accessible... Its only a 7 hour bus ride from Metro Manila. I suggest to ride a Victory Liner since they have more trips to choose from. Sometimes though they have poor ordinary airconditioned bus. Some buses don't have a reclining chair. Check out their schedules and trips.

Freeway Launched Levi Celerio Collection

The stellar collection includes beautiful modern tailored dresses, sublimation print graphic tees, woven tops in chiffons and poplins, sexy printed knit mini dresses and accessories printed with words and lyrics from some of the most famous works of Celerio which includes Sa Ugoy ng Duyan, Saan Ka Man Naroroon, Ikaw ang Mahal Ko, Ang Daigdig Ko’y Ikaw, Ang Pipit and O Maliwanag na Buwan.  Lots of choices for that impressive workwear that lets you stand out or that memorable weekend get-away outfit.  It’s Freeway’s way of honoring Levi Celerio and his rich legacy to Philippine music.

Don’t just sing his songs, wear them!  

This collection has hit all Freeway Stores by June 5, 2012.

CNN Eye on the Philippines

I would say I totally agree with the reporter when she says Its more fun in the Philippines in many ways, and yes when you say Philippines I would say everyone would think of white sand beach and beautiful beaches.

Boracay is also known for its wonderful beaches, a paradise and I would say the "Queen of all Beaches". The challenge here for Filipinos is to keep as "the Queen" and should stay as it is and shouldn't be impeached on her throne because it wasnt taken care off by her people she serves.

However, I totally agree when she (the CNN reporter) says that Philippines are just getting a fraction of the worldwide tourist because of POLITICAL INSTABILITY, CORRUPTION, AND LACK OF PROPER INFRASTRUCTION. It is something the Philippine leader could do something.

Aside from the beautiful beaches in the Philippines, a visitor can also enjoy eco-tourism up north of the Philippine Archipelago.

The most popular spot in the north is of course Baguio City.

Or one can definitlely enjoy the scenic view of the mountain ranges of Mountain Province and Benguet:

The mountain road is only develop during
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

Or the rice terraces scattered all through out Ifugao and Mountain Province:

Or join the Igorot tribe in their majestic cultural performances.

  One can also visit the calm but mighty Abra River. Kayaking can also be develop in this place.

If you drive way up north you can also see the beautiful places of Basco Batanes.

note: all photos are courtesy of Robert Domoguen

Dampa sa MOA

Every time I hear the word "DAMPA" it excites me. I always imagine a mouth watering sea foods. I asked my friends grand mother and she told me that Dampa means seashore. Others would say Dampa is a nipa hut. So if you asked me to define DAMPA, I would say it is a HUT that is located near the sea shore specifically design for eating. hahaha thats my own definition. 

 So when we (me and my friend - Anton) had the chance to go out together. We tried eating at Dampa in SM Mall of Asia in Pasay. Since it is my first time I am not particular on how the transaction goes. There are a lot of Dampa Restaurants in MOA so we have to choose. We don't have an idea and don't know who offers the best.

So we choose Aling Mahrsya Dampa Paluto Restaurant. Since it is my first time I am expecting a little bit more though I dont know what to expect though.. wahahah. So we choose shrimp, rice and Adobong Kangkong on the side.

While I am munching the shrimp. I decided to eat using my hands as a spoon and fork. In short we call it KAMAYAN!!!! I loved it! Aling Mahrsya is comparable to a LUTONG BAHAY.

After eating, we decided to sip a cup of coffee at the Starbucks. I think it is a combination... I loved it.

Freeway x Celerio: National Artist Collectors’ Series Fall 2012

Filipinos really love singing. You can always see karaoke or videoke almost everywhere in the country from malls to household and from streets parties to birthday parties or from all occasions. Videoke will never be absent.

 Somehow this is a national trait for Filipinos that they have in common and somehow this was rooted way back then. In 1910 a composer and lyricist was born in the name of Levi Celerio, where his work were cherished as it talks about life, conveys nationalistic sentiments and utter grand philosophies. He has written more than 4,000 Filipino folk songs, Christmas and love songs.

 Last June 5, 2012 Freeway has officialy launched a collection in honor of Levi Celerio. This is Freeway's first National Artist for Music in the Series.

Click on the image below for more details and other featured products.

The Best of Levi Celerio by Freeway

Freeway Launched their Levi Celerio Tribute at THE ROW GLORIETA 5. I went their with Kessa Thea Peralta.

Of course this is my first time to join such wonderful event and so I have to really observant and savor every moment of the event. It was such a wonderful experience and I can see my self attending more events like this.

G Toengi Hosted the Event

The said event was hosted by Ms G. Toengi one of the most successful Philippine Actress. She is still as glamorous as ever and very fashionable in her Red Dress.

As the said event commemorates the late Philippine National Artist Levi Celerio, a world renounce musician and a very artistic Filipino composer, Pilita Corales sings some of the song written by Levi.

Pilita Corales in her signature singing pose

 A child even had the chance to sing and dance with the iconic Pilita Corales.

After Pilita's number G, Pilita, and another guest had a time to talk about Levi.

Everyone can buy the said featured Levi Celerio collections in all Freeway stores nationwide (Philippines).

You can also check Freeways website at http://www.freeway.net.ph/