April Calendar of Major Philippine Festivals » Lakbay Pilipinas

It’s summertime once again and what a better way to enjoy the fine weather than taking a road or boat trip to various destinations and festivals around the country.

Experience Igorot culture in the Lang-Ay Festival of Bontoc on the way to celebrations in Gawagaway-yan and Cocowayan Festivals in Isabela. Celebrate bountiful harvests in the Dagupan Bangus Festival and Pistay Dayat in Pangasinan. Feel the excitement and beauty of the Bicol region in Rodeo Masbateño and Magayon Festival. Or renew religious fervor in the Turumba Festival, Panaad and Pamalandong Ha Palo.

There are many places to visit this summer and here’s a short list. Have fun travelling around the Philippines!

GAWAGAWAY-YAN FESTIVAL

Cauayan City, Isabela » April 1-13

• Gawagaway-yan means good harvest and joyous gathering. Activities include cultural shows, float parade, street dancing competition, sports fest and agri-trade fairs featuring mushroom delicacies.

Ms. Maribel D. Eugenio

Contact No. (078) 652-2017 » Mobile Phone (0926) 204-4429

MAGAYON FESTIVAL

Albay » April 1-30

• A celebration of the Albayano’s way of life and a thanksgiving for plentiful harvest. Celebration includes agricultural products display, trade fairs, culinary shows, cultural events, street parades, photo and arts exhibit and sport events among others.

Mr. Jose M. Briones

Contact No. (052) 820-6315

VISIT SAMAL

Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte » April 1-30

• A marketing program using a “passport” for summer goers to Samal Island to be able to avail discounts and tour packages. The passport is distributed for free and is valid for the whole summer.

Mr. Nelson Aquino

Mobile Phone (0908) 891-7353, (0918) 429-4745

LIBOD-SAYAW

Bindoy, Oriental Negros » April 4

• Main activity is street dancing around the town center, an original moving pageantry with choreography based on Philippine folk dances.

Mr. Joel Verna

Contact No. (035) 405-3011; 531-0883

LANG-AY FESTIVAL

Bontoc, Mt. Province » April 4-7

• Showcases the rich cultural heritage of the people of the Mt. Province with street dances, theatrical performances, sports competition and agricultural trade fair.

Office of the Provincial Governor

Contact No. (074) 602-1036

PANA-AD SA NEGROS

Bacolod City » April 4-9

• A grand celebration that brings together all ten cities and twenty two municipalities in a showcase of trade, tourism, commerce and industry, arts and culture, beauty and talent, as well as games and sport. It features individual festivals in a colorful and jubilant street dance around the Panaad Park.

Ms. Marilyn Sanogal

Contact No. (034) 434-9039

ALLAW TA APO SANDAWA

Kidapawan City, North Cotabato » April 7

• A gathering of highland tribes in honor of Mount Apo – a sacred place.

Mayor Rodolfo Y. Gantuangco

Contact No. (064) 278-3361; 288-1604

P’GSALABUK FESTIVAL

Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte » April 8 – May 22

• The biggest festival of Dipolog City celebrating unity among the tri-people of Dipolog: Moro, Subano and Migrants. Feature talent and sports competition, arts and trade exhibits, special games, garden shows and cultural presentations. Street dancing highlights the event on the eve of the feast of Saint Vincent Ferrer, celebrated every third Saturday of May.

City Tourism Office

Contact No. (065) 212-2485; 212-9677

ARAW NG KAGTINGAN (Day of Valor)

Mt. Samat, Pilar Bataan » April 9

• In commemoration of “The Fall of Bataan”, top government officials, Filipino, American and Japanese World War II veterans and other visitors go to Mt. Samat to participate in the annual rites to honor the bravery of soldiers who fought and defended Bataan from invading Japanese forces.

Ms. Sarci Cuayson/Mr. Cesar Cuayson

Contact No. (045) 791-4785; 237-4785; 237-4476

MANGGAHAN SA GUIMARAS FESTIVAL

Guimaras Island » April 10-17 Highlight April 16-17

• A week-long festival that depicts the cultural and historical heritage of the Province with emphasis on its promotion as “mango country”

Ms. Angie Gabinete

Mobile No. (0929) 465-5594

RODEO MASBATEÑO

Masbate » April 11-16

• Feel the excitement as local cowboys pit their brains against bovine brawn in western style rodeo events like bull riding and steer wrestling, apart from local games like the good old Carabao Race.

Office of the Governor

Contact No. (056) 333-6937; 582-0320

COCOWAYAN FESTIVAL

Isabela City » April 11-15 and 25

• A tribute to the coconut, the main source of livelihood in Isabela. With copra trading as the main commercial activity, Isabeleños show their appreciation for the crop in a exuberant celebration of color, pageantry and panoply.

Mr. Filamer Baez

Contact No. (065) 231-6616

“LA LAGUNA” FESTIVAL

Sta. Cruz, Laguna » April 11-17

• Highlights the biodiversity of Laguna Lake and the rich natural resources of Laguna. It showcases a variety of competitions and activities such as the Dragon Boat Race, brass band competition, flora and fauna farms, cook fest, trade fair and choreographed sight and sound fireworks display competition.

Mr. Delto Michael A. Abarquez, Jr.

Contact No. (049) 501-3323; 501-8212

Mobile: (0916) 538-1157; (0908) 897-4071

ALIWAN FIESTA

SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City » April 14-16

• A yearly float and street dancing competition organized by the Manila Broadcasting Company featuring the various festivals of the different regions in the country.

Tel Nos.: (02) 832-6121; 551-0523

TURUMBA FESTIVAL

Pakil, Laguna » April 15, 26

• The religious activity consists of seven fiestas or lupi to commemorate the seven sorrows of Our Lady of Turumba. It starts before the Holy Week and every nine days hereafter and ends in the month of September. It is celebrated with a dancing procession.

Office of the Mayor

Tel. No. (049) 557-1766

DAGUPAN BANGUS FESTIVAL

Dagupan City, Pangasinan » April 17 – May 4

• Features street dancing, bangus grill and deboning, day and night variety shows, trade fairs, beauty contest, sports fest, cook fest, medical mission, visual arts, band concerts, dog show, fluvial parade, drum and lyre parade and street party.

Tel No. (075) 515-6196; 515-6291

MORIONES OBSERVANCE

Boac, Gasan and Mogpog, Marinduque » April 17-24 – Highlight April 22

• Colorfully garbed and masked soldiers and centurions re-enact the Beheading of Longinus. The entire towns of Boac, Mogpog and Gasan are virtually converted into huge stages as the story of Longinus unfolds.

Provicial Tourism Office

Tel. No. (042) 332-1177

FOLK HEALING

San Antonio, Siquijor » April 20 and 23 Black Saturday

• A time when herbalists from all over Visayas and Mindanao go to San Antonio, Siquijor to participate in a ritual known as “Tang-Alap”. The gathering culminates in an exclusive ritual that takes place in a secluded cave at dawn.

Office of the Mayor

Tel. No. (035) 344-2088

PANAAD

Camiguin Island » April 21-22

• Annual Holy Week activity where devotees flock to the island and walk the 64-kilometer circumferential road as a form of sacrifice to fulfill a vow or as a penance for sins.

Ms. Candice L. Borromeo

Tel. No. (088) 387-1097 local 120

PAMALANDONG HA PALO

Palo, Leyte » April 22

• Dramatic re-enactment of Christ’s sufferings on the Cross. Pamalandong means meditation.

Mr. Aaron Almadro

Tel. No. (053) 323-3060; 323-9143

BIGFISH SUMMER NRG (ENERGY)

Boracay, Malay Aklan » April 23

• One-of-a-kind music festival featuring five (5) of the top internationally-awarded Disc Jockeys, live performers and vocalists from the United Kingdom, United States and the Netherlands.

Mr. Moumen Daker

Tel No. (02) 632-7762

SUNDUAN HA CARIGARA

Carigara, Leyte » April 24

• Grand homecoming and festivities highlighting the rich history of Carigara, which was once the capital of Leyte. Activities include float parade and contest.

LGU-Carigara

Tel. Nos. (053) 331-2004; 331-2181

PISTAY DAYAT

Lingayen, Pangasinan » April 24 – May 2

• Thanksgiving festival for the year’s bountiful harvest from the sea, celebrated every 1st of May. Various activities are the selection of the Limgas na Pangasinan”, drum and lyre competition, trade and tourism fair, dance sport, orchestra contest, concerts, variety shows, youth/family camps and sports fest.

Office of the Governor

Tel. Nos.: (075) 542-6446; 542-8007

IMBAYAN FESTIVAL

Banuae Ifugao » April 25 – 29

• Held every three years, the festival consists of ethnic thanksgiving activities with cultural demonstrations, ethnic games, chants, songs and rituals.

Office of the Mayor

Tel No.: (074) 386-4052

LILIW GAT TAYAW TSINELAS (Footwear Festival)

Liliw, Laguna » April 26 to May 1

• A parade of floats featuring the agricultural and industrial products of Liliw. Other Highlights include Katutubong Palaro, Gabi ng Harana, musical arts and painting contests and the Gawad Parangal for Outstanding Liliweños.

Office of the Mayor

Tel. No. (049) 563-1001

4TH SIARGAO INVITATIONAL GAME FISHING TOURNAMENT

Pilar, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte » April 28 – May 1

• Renowned anglers from all over the world converge to join the biggest game-fishing tournament in the country.

Mayor Lucio T. Gonzales

Mobile No. (0928) 756-0743

MT. APO BOULDER FACE CHALLENGE

Davao del Sur » April 29

• A 24-hour extreme challenge to Mt. Apo Boulders. It highlights mountain biking, trekking to Mt. Apo Boulders, while water tubing and road running.

Mr. Julieto Requiza

Tel No.: (082) 553-9142 Mobile (0928) 292 7813

SUMMER ISLAND GETAWAY 2011

April 1 to June 30

• PHILTOA (Philippine Tour Operators Association) offers promotional packages all over the Philippines, especially designed for local residents in support of the Domestic Tourism Campaign of DOT. Promo tours range from 2 nights to daytrip packages.

Website: www.philtoa.org.

Tel. No. (02) 812-4513

For complete list of festivals and events, contact the Marketing and Promotions Group

Tourism Promotions Board

Tel Nos: (02) 525-1255; 525-9318 locals 244 and 271

Festival schedules posted are as sub,itted by organizers to the Department of Tourism. Schedules may change without prior notice

________________________________

Source: DOT-Tourism Promotion Board 

Manila Bulletin Ad – March 28, 2011 Vol. 459 No. 28

Ilocos Tour » Laoag-Pagudpod-Vigan Impromptu Weekend Getaway

I say unplanned trip is way better than planned one, maybe you won’t agree. But for me, those quick getaway trips are more gripping and remarkable especially if it’s one of those arbitrary barkada gigs. That’s the beauty of randomness – always tickles our unconscious desire for chaos. We always have that hidden desire to escape routine and a wish for that sudden bump on a boring road.

Conversely, best-planned trips are always impacted by cancellations. Of course we all know how safe and sane it is to plan a vacation in advance: we save for the expected expenses, cheap resort is booked, itinerary is neatly pre-decided and vacation leave is filed. There is no way the trip could go wrong. However, I don’t know if it’s just us (I mean our backpacker group), but most of our long planned barkada gigs are always being cancelled.

We all have that occasional urge for a quick break. And at this moment, we no longer care for a neatly planned trip. I find it amazing because if we are on a getaway travel mood, we always managed a really quick preparation and an exciting itinerary. It’s group dynamics I guess, and I’m lucky I got an awesome kaladkarin group – Thanks guys!

Planning an unplanned Ilocandia getaway

This, ladies and gentlemen, is what happened to us last weekend. We managed to have an Ilocos tour – which includes Laoag, Pagudpud and Vigan – in just two days!

But prior to our Ilocandia getaway, we all felt slightly intimidated because of not planning in advance. We all have valid reasons - fear of costly expenditures, uncertainty of not finding a proper resort or hotel, uncomfortable and tiring road trip, skepticism on transportation (and driver’s integrity) and lots of other reasons, hassles and barkada drama. (Is that right Anjho? Ha ha)

These haunt us until the day before our trip. But this is when sharing of ideas, group consultation, commitment and a little bit of common sense comes into play.

And before we know it, we are in ILOCANDIA!!!

Ilocos Tour – Laoag – Pagudpod – Vigan Two-day Barkada Trip

I want to share here how we managed to sneak out of Manila last weekend for a two- days-only weekend getaway.

Here’s our super itinerary and a sneak peek of the places we visited

Friday, 25 March 2011 – After work

8:00 p.m. Depart Manila going to Laoag

Saturday, 26 March 2011

Morning

• 5:30 a.m. Arrive at Laoag City » Quick breakfast at McDo » Lazy morning stroll at Laoag City » Ilocos Norte Capitol » Sinking Belltower » Church of Laoag » Museo Ilocos Norte

• 9:00 Parola ng Cape Bojeador (Bojeador Lighthouse) » Bangui Windmills

• 12:00 Check-in at Jun and Carol Beach Cottages - Pagudpud

AFTERNOON TOUR

• Tour of Ilocos Norte – Southbound » Kabigan Falls Trekking » Patapat Viaduct » Agua Grande » Kalbario Patapat Natural Park » Timamtang Rock » Bantay-Abot Cave » Blue Lagoon » Swimming at Pagudpod Beach

• Dinner and Peryahan trip at Pagudpud Town Plaza

Sunday, 27 March 2011

• 8:00 AM Resort Check-out

• Batac-Ilocos Norte Tour » Merienda at Batac Riverside Empanadahan » Marcos Museum » World Peace Center (Imelda Marcos Office) – Photo Gallery » Malacañang of the North (closed) » Quick peek at the Sand Dunes » Paoay Church

PM

• 1:00 p.m. LUNCH at Grace’s Crib » VIGAN Ilocos Sur » Pagburnayan Pottery » Hidden Garden » Baluarte ni Chavit » Crisologo Street

• 7:00 pm Back to Manila

28 March 2011 Monday

• 3:00 am Arrive Manila

• 8:00 am Back to work

Wallet Damage:

3,000.00 Pesos each (for 7 person)

Inclusive of:

Van rental and Driver’s Service Fee: 15,000.00 Php

Resort/Room Accommodation: 2,000.00 Php per room

Other Misc. Expenses (Entrance fees, toll fee, etc.)

Meals and budget for pasalubong not included.

My Tips for an impromptu Getaway Tour

Visiting all these places in just two days is really amazing – it’s like time travel. Now here’s a few tips I can give you if one of these days, you felt you badly need a change of weekend scenery.

• 1. Do an ocular inspection of the place via the Internet: With the Internet and blogs, everything is at your doorstep. Collect as much information about your travel destination as you can. This would give you a preview and make you feel much comfortable and prepared for new place.

• 2. Always look for cheap resort/hotel: There are always cheap hotels and resorts in every Philippine travel destinations with great service than can compete with known and famous hotels – always spend extra effort on finding them.

• 3. Check your wallet: Last but not the least: make sure you have extra cash before you leave or a credit card might be handy. There’s always an unplanned purchases, I’m sure of that!

On my upcoming posts, I will share my experiences (and mobile photos) of each place we visited.

I will appreciate it if you could share your thoughts and experiences on having an impromptu and unplanned trips.

Until then folks, more of our Ilocos Tour soon!

___________________________
HERE ARE THE DETAILED POSTS ABOUT OUR  Ilocandia Time Travel

• Ilocos Tour » Laoag-Pagudpod-Vigan Impromptu Weekend Getaway
• Ilocos Tour – Laoag, City of Sunshine » Waking up in the Sparkling Gem of Ilocandia
• Ilocos Tour » Sinking Bell Tower and McDonalds’ Rising Golden Arch 
• Cape Bojeador Lighthouse » Death of Elegance, Creepy Tales and A Spark of Wisdom 
• Bangui Windmills » Catching Scattered Memories Beyond the Wind  
• Pagudpud Beach in Saud, Ilocos Norte » Detecting Your Average Summer Happiness Level 
• Kabigan Falls, Pagudpud Ilocos Norte » The Best Lazy Trekking to Waterfalls in Ilocandia
• Jun and Carol Beach Resort Review » Affordable Pagudpud Beach Front Accommodation
• Patapat Viaduct and Kalbario Patapat Natural Park » Pagudpud Tricycle Tour Pit Stop 
• Magical Blue Lagoon and the Cascading Agua Grande » Pagudpud Tricycle Tour Pit Stop
• Allegory of the Bantay-Abot Cave and Timmangtang Rock » Is there such a thing as end-of-the-road?
• Batac City, Ilocos Norte » Understanding the Final Argument of a Dictator's Town 
• Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte » Architectural Heresy and Our Obsession with Heritage 
• Ilocos Tour - Guerilla Style » 5 Interesting Places to Visit On Your Way Out of Ilocos 
• Calle Crisologo Vigan Ilocos Sur » Sojourn to the Past

Dear SmartBro, I need You, Now Na! » Why subscribing to Smart Bro NOW is as exciting as playing Angry Birds

So I woke up today on a rainy Sunday morning, stay curled up on my bed, shirtless and feeling so comfy with my oversized boxer brief suddenly thinking about whether the world will really end in 2012, and whether Lady Gaga is really human while staring at the albino lizard on my wall. But before I could ask my lizard roommate, it ran off. Probably got scared with that morning hump on my baggy boxer brief. This part of the day, this “angry-bird morning salute,” which is of course is a natural morning phenomenon for guys (but a miracle for viagra-dependent baby boomers) usually bewilders me.

But enough of that – I have that tendency to entertain trivial things in the morning – so I grab my smartphone to check what’s on my Google calendar and Active Tasks to check what’s on for today.

To my surprise, my calendar has no saved entries I’m feeling weird because I’m supposed to go somewhere today. I felt like I’m missing something.

Then there’s this one item on my Astrid Active Task – finish level 4 of Angry Birds and look for golden eggs. I guess I have to ponder on that one. Yes, I ‘m spending an embarrassing amount of time entangled in crashing funny birds into some green sardonic pigs.

My Angry Birds addiction

Here comes Yodz.. weeeee!!

Angry Birds is simple and perfect, with cute graphics, sneering characters and funny sounds. I love those little “wheeee!” and “ngorrk ngoorrk” whenever you slingshot your angry-yet-funny birds at those grinning green pigs.

Since I don’t have anything to do and playing my angry bird is a little too early – oopps, I mean playing Angry Birds, the android game, not that other angry bird – I grab my laptop and connect my prepaid SmartBro to check on the latest news, update my blog and bloghop, connect on my Facebook friends and spy on my favorite celebrities on Twitter.

On being disconnected

To my horror, my Smart Bro doesn’t have any pre-paid credits left! Oh my gulay, this is a tsunami like disaster. Hmmmm, should I go out and buy a pre-paid load or just stay home and play Angry Birds. After a millisecond thinking on that one, I decided I’m too lazy going out for re-load.

I don’t have an unlimited home broadband plan yet because I’m convincing myself that I don’t really need it. I just go online from time to time using the SmartBro Unlisurf 50, besides there’s free online connection at our office.

So my plans to do some blogging and Facebook surfing today got shot to heck. I couldn’t update myself with what’s happening outside. Couldn’t do much of anything really, except play Angry Birds.

Sabi ko na nga, I’m forgetting something

Killing my forgetful self

“Wer U na!” that was the text message I received late in the afternoon from a long lost former co-worker and a friend.

Irritated, I replied, “Wag ka magulo, naghahanap ako ng golden eggs.”

“What! mag start na ang binyag! San ka na ba?” my friend quickly replied.

“Anong binyag?” I asked, totally confused.

“I tagged you in our invitation sa Facebook, di ba nag LIKE ka? I also sent event reminders this morning in FB,” replied my friend obviously pissed off.

Then it hit me. Today is the baptism of my long lost friend’s first daughter and I’m invited as Ninong.

I managed sending a quick reply ”K, I’ll b der.” To do that, I need to hurry. I didn’t have time to brush my teeth and shower so I just gargled a mouthful of Oracare and wash my face, changed into something formal and run.

News black-out

I can’t find a cab so I decided riding a jeep instead.

“Makikiabot nga po” I said while handing out my seven pesos. I was imagining my friend so angry at me like those black bomb Angry Birds annihilating green pigs if I didn’t make it to the church.

Then I heard the driver saying “Hoy kulang bayad mo!” It can’t be me because I know that I gave seven pesos which is the minimum fare, so I look at the girl beside me who stared back with that Sen. Mirriam Santiago angry look as if saying “how dare you!”

Then I realized they are all staring at me, so the driver is really talking to me.

I confidently said “Siyete po yung inabot ko”

“Hindi ka ba nanonood ng balita, nagtaas na ang pamasahe, kulang ka pa ng piso!” said the irritated-andropausal driver.

I just handed additional one peso without saying any word, feeling totally humiliated – because yes, I’m not watching TV because all they got is bad news and I don’t have home broadband plan or home Wi-fi to regularly check my e-mail news subscription.

When I regained consciousness and came back to the physical world, I remembered that I need Superman or a teleporting power to make it to the church – because the event is in Antipolo. Poor old me.

I just sent my usual alibi to my friend saying, there’s an urgent matter came up at work so I can’t make it.

I know my friend didn’t believe me.

A personal note to my friend

Yes, I know my friend, you wanna do this to me

Even if I apologized to you a few times, I know you are still disappointed. It’s an important event for you and your firstborn and I didn’t give it any importance.

I wanted to explain what really happened, but I can’t say it to you in person. What will I say? I didn’t make it because I’m playing Angry Birds? Because I don’t have internet pre-paid load and didn’t got your reminder on Facebook?

I know that sound so silly but admittedly that’s the real reason and it’s kind of senseless at the same time.

I know you’re lurking here sometimes, and I want you to read this. Just poke me on Facebook and let’s talk about this over bottles of beer. All charges are on me.

I need SmartBro Home Broadband Plan – Now na!

There’s more to Facebook than reading our friends status update - every meal eaten, every TV show and movie watched, every rainy days experienced (which is of course obnoxious most of the time). Facebook is also being used in sending invitations for family and personal events. You just have to design one invitation card, upload it and tag everybody. Maybe it lacks personal touch but it’s the trend nowadays.

There was no intentionally forgetting that event of my friend. So, what I’m thinking now is how can I prevent that from happening again. Time is valuable and I later realized that I need to be constantly connected now.

I need SmartBro Home Broadband Plan NOW not only to be constantly connected with friends and family but because of other personal reasons:

1. The need to share and write: Lately I decided to take blogging seriously. I don’t know but somehow I find it therapeutic, stress relieving and fun. Who knows maybe someday I can make a career out of blogging.
2. The need to be informed: It’s really important not only to avoid embarrassing moments but also to keep in touch with the physical world. I don’t watch TV and I don’t want to buy newspaper everyday. Why buy it when you can read news online?
3. The need to finish workloads: Although I hate bringing work at home, but sometimes it’s unavoidable.
4. The need to be connected with family and friends: I know you can still be connected with them through mobile phones but still the internet is so far the best medium.
5. It’s no longer a luxury but a necessity: I think I’m already at this stage.

Subscribing to SmartBro Home Broadband Plan NOW is like having the Angry Birds’ Golden Eggs

As I’ve said, having constant and reliable connection to the internet right now is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It may depend on everybody’s personal situation and needs but I can safely say that most of us do.

Timing is also perfect because if we subscribe to SMART BRO Unlimited Home Broadband Plan 999 or 1995 now, we can have this amazing freebies:

• Free All-In-One HP Printer
• FREE Call and Texts with SMART Gold Lite Plan 300 for 6 months subscription
• Free 1 month broadband subscription

Not only that, with the SMART BRO Unlimited Home broadband, we can surely get consistent surf speed and stable signal.

I learned that this Smart BRO Unlimited Home broadband promo is from March 4 to June 4, 2011 only and this probably will not happen again so we better grab the opportunity.

I’m sure subscribing to SMART BRO Unlimited Home Broadband Plan 999 or 1995 now is like having all those golden eggs in Angry Birds.

Got any related Angry Birds experience? Comments? Thoughts?

I’ll definitely appreciate it if you could share that on my comment section

______________________________

* For further inquiries about the promo, you may visit the nearest SMART Wireless Center or any SMART BRO accredited agents.

Per DTI-NCR Permit No. 1871, Series of 2011.

Cebu City Side Trip » Bantayan Island Getaway at Sta. Fe Beach Club Ogtong Cave Resort

I don’t know why these first few months of the year always gives me extra stress. Maybe it’s because of that nagging desire to accomplish more, to plow the field early to avoid the afternoon burnout. Fresh start is not always easy as rebooting a laptop. The whole shebang gives me headache, and the energy surge always nearly bursts my sanity bubble.

This is the time of the year when I badly need an awesome beach. Yep, just give me sunset and a beach and everything will be fine.

Fortunately, we spent the extra day of our Cebu City business getaway on a side-trip to Bantayan, an island said to be the next Boracay at the western portion of the northern tip of Cebu province. We checked-out at GV Tower hotel early morning and took a three-hour drive going to Hagnaya port.

Dark clouds threatening our Bantayan Island escapade -- but the mighty sun proved he's king 

The three-hour road trip was fantastic because you got to see Cebu’s countryside – lots of greenery, mini chocolate hills and an occasional glimpse of the beautiful Cebu island coastline which adds up to our excitement. Luckily we catch the Ro-Ro in Hagnaya port just in time leaving for Sta. Fe. It’s really convenient because you can actually bring a car or your SUV from Cebu city to Bantayan Island.

The ferry (Ro-Ro) that took us to Bantayan Island

I felt like I was going to my hometown in Mindoro because the pier and the scenery are very similar to our Abra de Ilog pier in Occidental Mindoro. The ride was a bit nostalgic because it was a long time since I spent my vacation in Mindoro.

Smooth Ro-Ro ride going to Bantayan

Cute kid playing peek-a-boo with me during our ferry trip.

I’m expecting something like the Island of Tingloy in Batangas, quaint and mountainous. However, I found out that Bantayan Island is many times larger than Tingloy with many barangays and also a bit populated.

Sta. Fe Beach Club – Ogtong Cave Resort

Sky is really different at the beach

After about an hour Ro-Ro (ferry) ride, we headed directly at the Ogtong Cave Resort. You can instantly feel the relaxing atmosphere of the resort. No high rise buildings and noisy vehicles on the highway – just the trees and the soft sound of the beach.

The resort is set in a wide-open space with nice looking summer cottages in manicured garden. 

Ogtong Cave Resort Cottage

There is also a mini zoo, but that doesn’t catch my interest. Like I said before, I’m not a fan of caged animals. I’m not an animal activist but I don’t see the point of putting them in cages as pets or worst, putting them in a beach resort as attractions.

"In praise of the blue sky"

"Graceful Death"

Disappointing Cave

Ogtong Cave at the Sta. Fe Beach Club - Bantayan Island

I thought Ogtong Cave is the main attraction of the resort, hoping that it is more exciting to explore than the Hinagdanan Cave in Bohol. But to my disappointment, the cave is just like a pit with stairs – it is just a small dent in the Sta. Fe landscape. There is nothing exciting at the cave except for the small water lagoon. Also, they no longer allow swimming at the cave so we immediately abandoned it.

Serene beach

Sandy beach in front of the Ogtong Cave Beach Resort

What makes me excited was of course, the awesome beach! The sand was not as fine and white like those in Boracay but there is serenity here – no fancy tourists, loud bars and zooming jet skis. Maybe we are just lucky because there are only few guests staying at the resort that time. 

"Si Bantay sa Bantayan Island"

It was not in our plan to stay overnight at the resort so we didn’t rent a beach villa. Instead we just rent a small kubo (nipa hut) perfectly located near the beach. We only have the whole afternoon to enjoy the beach, hence after our awesome seafood lunch, we immediately disturbed the serene water.

Intricate rock cavities along the Bantayan Island beach

Unlike other beaches with wide shoreline, Ogtong Cave Resort has notable intricate rock cavities carved just a few meters from the shoreline, which is typical in rocky islands. It gives the beach a scenic touch together with nice palm trees and manicured green grass.

the backpackers

For more details regarding accommodations, facilities and services, contact details and how to book, at the Sta. Fe Beach Club – Ogtong Cave Resort, visit their website at http://www.ogtongcave.com. It has useful information although it seems they are not updating it.

Ready for battle again

We didn’t have the chance to visit other cool beaches and tourist spots in Bantayan Island due to our very limited time (actually we just sneak in there), but we did had a good time in Cebu. We also had a quick evening visit at the Kota Lighthouse and did some crazy barkada gig there before having our ritual booze-and-videoke night.

"The Thinking Man"

Over-all, our Cebu trip was quite memorable. A quick visit to Bantayan island was really de-stressing. The trip was a nice early treat for me before summer (and everything hot and stressful) kicks in.

"Fly High"

Definitely a quick trip to a sunny beach never fails to re-boot my system – ready for battle again!


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Radiant Beauty in Chaos » Mobile phone photography

Beauty in Chaos

Sunset at Makati City Skyline

I took this while attending a company event last Friday at the Penthouse. 

A glimpse of the fireworks while on our way to Mall of Asia

The Attack of the Ball and the Sperm Cells

Blooming Corals in the Dark Sky

Carousel of Death

Today, I was scheduled to post the last part of our Cebu City Tour which is our Bantayan Island side trip, but I'm suffering blogger's block again. I post these pics just to let you know that I didn't abandoned blogging.   

This is again one of my noob attempt on mobile phone photography last weekend. I know it is not much and I guess the pro's will call it a by-chance photography but I like these images, especially that sunset at the Makati city skyline. 

That sunset reminds me that you can still find beauty in chaos. 

GV Tower Hotel Cebu City Review » Cheap rates that will give you second thoughts

Sharing this GV Tower hotel experience during my recent Cebu City trip is my novel answer to my perpetual blogger’s dilemma of “what shall I write today?” No, I am not a hotel connoisseur but I’m writing this review as a friend. Maybe you are planning your trip to Cebu City and now inquiring for cheap hotels to stay. You don’t know me and I don’t want to let you down – but I have to be honest, I only give praise when it's due, and criticism when warranted. Here’s my review.

I was assigned in Cebu City to conduct the MSAP 2011 last February 10 – 12 and was billeted at the GV Tower Hotel courtesy of our host school, the SCSIT (in short, it was a semi-business, 70 % leisure trip). We took the early morning flight and checked-in directly at the hotel for breakfast.

The Arwana receptionist 

 

The hotel is located at the intersection of Osmeña Blvd. and Sanciangko St., the two busy streets in downtown Cebu and the only temporary parking space they can provide for arriving guests is their basement which can hardly accommodate three cabs at the same time. 

GV Tower Hotel main entrance

Unlike other hotels, the basement serves as the main entrance to the elevator and not directly to the reception area. Yes, the hotel’s reception area is located at the 7th Floor of the building. Also, expect no bellhop to help you with your luggage.

I'm trying to be less petty and more constructive here but I can’t help but be more critical because the only smile we received here is from the large Arwana at the basement. Hotel staff seems always so busy they didn’t have time to greet you with a smile – rather unusual for a establishment under the hospitality industry.

The lobby and other facilities

The main lobby and reception is located at the seventh floor, which is quite unusual and inconvenient with only one small service elevator. Also, there are only three small sofas available at the waiting area, so the adjacent bar and restaurant is also used as lounge by waiting guests.

Main lobby and reception at the 7th floor

The hotel bar and restaurant at the seventh floor is serving breakfast, lunch and dinner but it is closed at midnight. I hardly saw any diner maybe because they prefer the nearby restaurants, which is more convenient. It is also interesting to note the mini sari-sari store beside the reception area where you can buy cup noodles, chichirya, shampoo and other stuff – quite convenient but out-of-place.

Bar and Restaurant

We inquired if we can go up the City View Function Hall at the 17th floor to take pictures but the hotel staff said it is only available when there is an event – guests are not allowed to go up there. Therefore we just took pictures of the Cebu City skyline from the 7th floor.

According to their official website, GV Tower Hotel is the newest and tallest landmark in downtown Cebu. I’m excited when I learned about it but to my disappointment, it is true a few years ago. Currently, it no longer has that status. 

Annoying keycard

Hotel technician fixing our door

We had a full dose of a real bad customer service after returning from our evening Cebu City tour. We can’t open our room using our keycard so we asked the receptionist for help. She checked our keycard and said it should be working – like it’s our fault. We go back to our room at the 16th floor but still we can’t open our room so we go back again at the 7th to ask for help. This time I insist that somebody should assist us. During that time, there was only one receptionist and you have to ring the bell to call her. Without being sorry (like it’s a usual thing there) the sleepy receptionist asked us to wait while she calls for a technician.

Imagine it was past midnight and we are really sleepy and very tired. The technician was trying to open the door with a coin and a screwdriver? While saying “yawa-man, yawa!” (or something like that!) obviously irritated because we interrupted his midnight siesta.

We waited about an hour before they got the keycard working. Thank goodness!

The hotel is at its worst during the night. They are turning off some lights probably to save on electricity, thus giving an eerie feel to the narrow alley going to your room - like those in the horror films.

The Obama Room

See the picture in the frame?

If there was something notable about their Deluxe Room, it was the picture frame not the panaview. I really can’t understand why they cut a grinning picture of Barack Obama from a magazine and put it in a large picture frame making it the centerpiece of the room. I don’t know if it is their idea of attracting foreign guests or it’s a joke. Perhaps the hotel's interior designer is an Obama fanatic.

Our Deluxe Room with the view of Sanciangko Street

Their Deluxe Room has basic amenities such as cable TV, a few hangers, aircon and a roll of tissue paper. However, their cable TV has very few channels and there is no remote control for the aircon because it’s an old type unit, probably second hand. No matter how we tried adjusting the dials, it cannot make the whole room cool enough.

The hotel comfort room

The comfort room with the shower area is too small for an average size guest. The rooms also doesn’t have the standard “Do Not Disturb/Please make-up this room” door sign and they don’t have the regular room cleaning such as changing of bedsheets and cleaning of CR. I guess you have to specifically request for those services.

The pillows are also too small with very visible numbers stamped like those in prisons. The room was void of comfortable atmosphere and furnishings.

The neighborhood 

GV Tower Hotel along Osmeña Blvd.

Safe for lazy late night stroll? No! GV Tower Hotel’s immediate surrounding is not safe for late night stroll. We tried going out for a late night snack and we saw lots of hookers in the dark alley just a few meters away from the hotel’s entrance. There are also lots of beggars and homeless children sleeping along the alley together with vendors selling pirated DVD’s and stuff. It’s like a mini Quiapo, you will not feel safe especially if you don’t know how to speak and understand their local dialect.

GV Tower Hotel plus factor

Cebu City view (Osmeña Blvd.) from the 7th floor lobby

The hotel’s location is very convenient due to the main street intersection which is directly adjoining easily reachable and convenient transport links. It’s just a few meters away from the Colon-Osmeña intersection, the major arteries of Cebu’s transportation route.

Also within the area are major fastfood chains and the Gaisano Mall. The location is also within walking distance from the Basilica of Sto.Nio, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Fort San Pedro, Plaza Independencia, Magellans Cross, Elizabeth Mall.

A note to fellow first timers

If you are traveling to Cebu City, whether for business or for leisure and you really want to enjoy your whole stay, you might want to check other nearby hotels first for comparison and to really the got the value for your money.

However, GV Tower hotel is perfect if you are traveling in Cebu and just want a very affordable and cheap room to stay overnight. The hotel is also your budget saver if you are on a tight budget and looking for cheap hotel to stay in Cebu City.

Due to its very accessible location, GV Tower hotel is also very convenient if you are just doing some business within Cebu City.

Summary

Observations

• Hotel reception at the 7th floor may cause inconvenience, there should be a receiving bellboy at the basement entrance.
• No slippers available
• Comfort room is too small with no toilet water sprayer hose (we Filipinos prefers washing our butt than just wiping it with tissue paper) so ask for a tabo.
• Very few TV Channels
• Unsafe neighborhood for a late night stroll
• Friendliness and helpfulness is rare
• Need improvement on staff competence in handling complaints
• Lacks homey atmosphere and furnishings

Good points

• Generally clean
• Very affordable/cheap room rates
• Good proximity to shopping areas and other famous City destinations

Quick Hotel Information: 

GV Tower Hotel – Downtown Cebu City

Address: Cor. Osmena Blvd. and Sanciangko St., Cebu City Philippines

Contact Number: +63 32 416-0000, +63 32 253-6518

Fax: +63 32 253-6518

Email: info@gvhotelgroup.com

Website: http://www.gvhotelgroup.com/

Room Rates: 

(May vary depending on tourist peak season or discounts and promos may be available)

Single Room : 850.00 Php

Standard Room : 1,100 Php

DeLuxe with Panaview: 1,300.00 Php

VIP with Terrace: 1,700.00 Php

Family with full view: 2,250.00 Php

(Above rates are based on my inquiry with the hotel as of February 2011 – Please call the hotel for updated/discounted rates)

Enjoy your Cebu trip!!!