Cebu/Bohol Trip

I decided to make this video just coz I don’t have many photos in this trip, because I am the photographer most of the time. I got some short video clips too so I stitched them so I can make a film that summarizes our trip to Bohol and Cebu last February 25-March 1, 2016. Had so much fun with my best friend and her family!

Daranak Falls: An Exultant Plunge in the Majestic Pool of Mother Nature

Are you looking for a beach-like-experience just to quench the heat of summer near the metro? There is one alternative way, the refreshingly cold, fresh and surging water of Daranak Falls will surely satisfy that enticing desire. It is concealed on the slopes of Sierra Madre Mountain Range in the town of Tandang Kutyo, Tanay, Rizal.

The Daranak Falls has 14-meter high waterfalls cascading into a deep catch basin that serves as a natural pool which make a perfect summer getaway for everyone. Also, there are other smaller waterfalls situated in the area that are perfect for a natural water massage.

How did we get there? From Starmall FX/van Terminal, Shaw Boulevard, we took a ride bound to Tanay, Rizal for 70Php. The van stops at the Tanay Public Market. Travel time is about 1.5 – 2 hours. At Tanay Public Market, hire a tricycle going to Daranak Falls for 100Php one way.

It took us 20 minutes to get to the falls, the trekking is not that steep and there are bamboo brides that makes it safer. We saw some cute monkeys on our way.

Daranak Falls is open daily from 8:00AM – 5:00PM, entrance fee is 50 pesos. Picnic shed is available for 300 pesos, whereas picnic table is for 150 pesos, but good thing our friend brought a tent where we placed our stuffs, overnight camping is not allowed though.

We actually did not swim in Daranak falls, it was too deep and might be dangerous for people to swim. We took a dip into the neighboring and smaller falls, Batlag. We were asked again for the entrance fee to this area, it was 100 pesos. Well, in my opinion, the fee is just right since this area is more safer and shallow and a lot more "swimming-friendly" little falls. Everybody can enjoy the alluring blue cold water of the falls. Swimming float tubes are available for those non – swimmers like me who want to relax in the middle of the pool. You just need to be careful on transferring to the other falls since the rocks could slippery. We enjoyed taking pictures with the falls. TIP: it was too bad we weren’t able to bring a waterproof camera or phone case, so bring one to enjoy your pictorial more!

Although we did not swim in the majestic Daranak falls, we took a lot of time here to take photos. Well, I was with 2 pairs of couples and they took the chance to have a “pre-nup” pictorial and the falls was undeniable a beautiful background. I was their official photographer for the day.

The area is protected by local government and is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the park. The facility has cottages, souvenir shops and restaurants. Parking lots are available outside the area.

Actual trip was on May 13, 2013. It was so memorable, indeed a worthy trip if you have limited budget. Daranak Falls is an ideal place for adventurous people and those who want some change of scenery from the beach, sand and sun.

Thanks for reading and have a blessed day!

Lucky Friday the 13th: Meeting Marlisa Punzalan -'X-Factor Australia' winner Experience

I have been a fan of this incredible girl throughout her journey in X-Factor Australia. I have watched every videos in Youtube and stalked her in Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and I am her fan since I learned that she is a Pinay and only 14 years old! Amazing isn’t she?! Undeniably, she has a powerful voice and she really is a #PinoyPride.

Unfortunately (shame on me who claims to be her fan), I did not know that she is going to Eastwood today. Well, I know she is coming in the Philippines this February but I did not know that she will be out there within my reach in Eastwood City!!!!

From my work station, I am hearing the familiar songs and a familiar voice. In my mind I was saying, “Whoever is singing out there is amazing, and she even has the exact singing technique like Marlisa’s”. Yeah! Poor me, I was clueless that the familiar voice I am hearing was the actual Marlisa, my idol! One of my colleague heard me said “that singer sound exactly like Marlisa” then he made a comment, “oh you did not know? That is Marlisa! Didn’t you see the big posters outside?” My heart was pounding, I felt the adrenaline rush and my feet were already pulling me to get down to check her out. I was so excited, but I have a meeting in the next 30 minutes. I decided to asked permission to my lead, and she allowed me but I need to get back in time for our meeting.

So I get into the Eastwood Mall Open Park, there, I was running and trying my best to get into the crowd to see her. I was enjoying her duet with Darren Espanto, they were singing “Thinking Out Loud” when I noticed the time, I need to go back to the office. Waaahh!!! I was so hesitant to go but I made a promise to get back in time, I did not know what to do. All I was thinking that moment is I need to get my picture taken with her!!! Then, an infuriated security asked me to back off a little to give way to those people who were coming inside the pen. Then I asked him in a very conceited tone “how can I come in?” Then he told me that I need to buy her album, and then I will have a chance to meet and greet her! My ears were clapping, I rushed into the booth and bought her album without thinking twice! I asked the sales lady if I can still meet and greet her if I come back around 9PM, she said she doubts but I can still try. Well, I saw the people, and I know that it would take at least over an hour until Marlisa finishes signing their CDs.

So I went back to office, all throughout our meeting, I was praying that it won’t took us that long and that I can still get to meet Marlisa. When our boss asked us if we still have questions, I signaled my teammates to say NO so we can finish the meeting already. Hahaha. Good thing our boss was not in the mood to talk much tonight.

So finally, I went to the meet and greet, and the line is almost finish, only about 10 people before me. I went with my teammate who has a good quality phone camera so she can take our photo, but unfortunately it was not allowed and Eastwood has an official photographer for the event. In the line I was talking so much, practicing what I would say to her once it’s my turn, my teammate was laughing at me. But when I was finally beside her, and was able to look at her in a very close distance, I froze, it was like star struck! Was not able to say anything except “Hi!” All the things I was practicing to say to her were gone. It was like I am nearly having a stroke, and was just smiling back at her. Then our precious 3 minutes was done! I was so happy!!! My teammate was again laughing at me and told me “what happened to your script?” AHAHAHA.. I said, I know right?! I was so stunned, I run out of words.

So, here are the photos of her album, of course with her autograph! :)

She sang "Try," "Yesterday," "Hoplessly Devoted To You," "Impossible" and her carrier single "Stand by You" and “Thinking Out Loud” with Darren tonight. Darren also performed two songs– "In Love Ako Sa' Yo" and "One Moment in Time."

Her album is great! I love all her songs!

Well, this was a very memorable event in my February this year plus it negated the Friday the thirteen jinx, I felt so lucky! I will continue supporting her, hope she will have a concert in the Philippines in the future.

Pantene Pro-V 3 Minute Miracle Review: When My Wild Hair Was Tamed

Last Saturday, first day of the month, my mom called me out because there was a package for me. I was not expecting anything, so I am clueless what and where it came from. Upon receiving the package and having a feel of what’s inside (without even reading the mail details), I knew it’s from BDJ. I was so happy! I haven’t taken a bath that moment and I was really having a bad hair day.

Story of My Hair:

Well, before I proceed with the review, let me describe to you what my hair is like. Simple… one word! WIRE! Yeah, I have a wire-like hair. Without rebonding, it looks and most of the time feels like the “Baguio walis tambo”. I used to have a long wavy hair, and it was last rebonded December 2013. I got traumatized with my last rebond (it’s home service from a family friend, and somehow a part of my hair was over exposed to chemical that I got slightly bald), that I haven’t gone to a parlor since then for treatments or rebonding. Just went twice last 2014 for haircut which I am now very regretful of. According to some gay friends, when a naturally “wire-like” hair is rebonded, it is the ends of the hair that holds it straight. I have known this for so long, since high school I think, but when I got too busy at work last year, I got no time to comb or even dry my hair before leaving home that I need to cut it. Plus my hair grown too long that it’s getting expensive to maintain with lots of shampoo and conditioner required. So, result of cutting my rebonded hair was my bulgy, dry and very unmanageable hair. So if you need an example of a damaged hair, I volunteer.

My thoughts on the product:

Well, I have been using the conditioner for 9 days now. On my first day of use, I was amazed! The smoothness is felt immediately when I am combing my hair after shower. Before, without any conditioner, I find it so hard to comb my hair, it would take time for me to untangle all the strands. But, the first time I used the product, I already fell in love with it! I love the scent, I love how it smoothens my hair and I love that it made my hair feel a lot lighter. Also, I have to commend that it was not oily at all. Unlike the product that I am used to before, my hair was moisturized but not to the extent that it looks like I put oil on it.

I am an everyday commuter, when I went to office on my second day of use, I noticed that my air is actually moving while the “not so strong” wind was blowing onto my face. I remember how my hair will be so N.R. (no reaction) to the wind before, it would take a signal number 2 typhoon before my hair can be actually moved by the wind. That day, my head felt so light, and even if I was walking under the sun on my way to office, my hair still smelled so fresh.

I continuously used the conditioner for more than a week now, I can really testify with the miracle the product can bring to one’s hair. Now, I have noticed that I have less hair fall and my hair looks less bulgy than before. I am now more confident to wear my hair down, and even if I comb it with my fingers, my wild hair can now be easily “tamed”.

Buy again?

Definitely! Though within 9 days the 70 ml bottle is almost done, I would absolutely use this product moving forward. I don’t know the price yet, but I hope price would be reasonable. Well, as long as I achieve these great results, I am willing to spend extra. I is now my favorite conditioner.

Cons:

I am very inconsistent with the shampoo I use, so within 9 days, I have used the conditioner with different brands/types of shampoo (softening shampoo, for longer hair shampoo, anti-dandruff shampoo). I can say that it has different effects when paired to different types of shampoos. Well, I will try using it with Pantene shampoo and I will check if it works more effectively with the same brand.

Thanks for reading and have a blessed day!

Puerto Galera: Unplanned Trip To a Breathtaking Haven

It was on June 15, 2013 when my friend (who were supposedly having a sleep over in my apartment) and I decided to go on a week end get away to Puerto Galera. Lucky of us, my roommate lives there, so when her brother asked us if we want come, we did not hesitate and packed our things within 5 minutes.

White Beach is one of the famous beaches in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. It is known for its blueish water, active nightlife, all kinds of bars and restaurants,and lots of activities anyone could enjoy in the beach.

From Cubao, we rode a bus going to Batangas (Batangas Port). The bus terminal is located near the Ali Mall and fare is 175 pesos. It took us 2 1/2 hours to reach Batangas Port. At Batangas Port, you’ll pay Regular ferry ride for 270 pesos, terminal fee for 30 pesos and an environmental fee of 50 pesos.

After almost 1 1/2 hour ferry ride, we finally reached the shore of White Beach, Puerto Galera! My roommate owns a lodge in White Beach, we were warmly welcomed by her family and their place is really accommodating. On the first day, since we are sleepless, both of us decided to sleep in our comfortable room, equipped with two big beds, air-conditioned, a television set, and Wi-Fi. All the basic facilities and amenities were available and the place is clean and spacious.

photo from: https://www.facebook.com/Manalolodgeandrestaurant

It was already dinner time when we woke up and we firstly witnessed the night life in the white beach. Of course, my roommate’s mom cooked dinner for us, everything she prepared were so delicious. After dinner, my friend and I wandered around the beach. The night has been lighten up by the bars and the music made the beach more alive. Each bar has its publicity stunt. Some offers cheaper price of drinks than the others, some of them have live shows like to comedy bars with gay impersonators, and there were also the poi dancers. It was very entertaining to watch, me and my friend grab a drink in one of the bar, called Hiyas Bar.

Next morning, we woke up early to do all the activities we can do within the day. Since we went unprepared, we firstly went to the nearest market in the “bayan” to get ourselves some swimsuits. The local people there were very accommodating and always smiling. We easily mingled with the store owners and had a short talk with them, plus we were able to get discounts in our swimsuits.

Around 9AM, we went to the white beach to take photos. Of course we took a dip in the cold sea. The sand is indeed white and the water was blue-green. It was beautiful! We went to the end of the white beach where there were huge rocks, we really tried hard to take our selfies because we barely see tourists or passers by that time.

Around 11 AM, we negotiated with the boatman who will give us the tour. My friend and I decided to do island hopping, snorkeling and Tamaraw falls. We then ate lunch at Manalo’s Lodge and waited there for our tourist guide, our tour started at 12 PM.

Our first stop is the island wherein small bangka (boats) await. This small bangka will take you to the underwater cave (additional 200 pesos/pax), giant clam shell snorkeling area (additional 200 pesos/pax) and to the corals snorkeling area (additional 200 pesos/pax). We were diffident at first because it was too pricey. But we decided to go for it since we were there already and really wanted to go snorkeling. We used our charm to get discount and somehow used my dearly roommate’s name, thank God because we got the 3 activities for 800 pesos for the two of us.

One island in Oriental Mindoro has this underwater cave. The cave is too small that it can be explored by a few minutes. Though the entrance and exit of this cave are small, beneath it was the cave and it’s bigger that can be fit up to no more than 20 persons. The water inside the cave can get shoulder deep/high and it’s very cold.

Next stops were the 2 snorkeling areas, first visited the area where giant clam shells are being cultivated and protected. The 2nd snorkeling area was stunning, the boatman advised us to buy a slice of bread on our way. There, the boatman told us to hold on the rope placed on the side of the boat and set our heads into the water. The boat run slowly and then we watch what's underneath, we saw different kinds of fishes, corals, sea urchins, water plants! All we can say that moment was WOW! We found out that Mindoro Oriental's water is wealthy with many varieties sea creatures.

We went to another 2 beaches. One was the Bayanan Beach and the other was the Aplayang Munti, where a statue of St. Mary was situated on a huge rock. We bathed for a while in this island, it was like we rented the whole island because we were the only tourists there that moment.

Our last stop was the Tamaraw Falls. It was around 4PM when we went back to the port area where a tricycle awaits us to bring us to the falls. It took us 45 minutes, good thing it was still open when we got there. The falls is a true beauty! Of course we took pictures there. We went down in an area where the falls run trough. The water was not that clear, there were many green moss and it was slippery. The tricycle driver told us it’s because it just rained few days ago. We did not enjoyed our swim there because of this, but nonetheless, the view there was spectacular.

Souvenirs stores are also all over White Beach. From t-shirts, bracelets, anklets, key-chains, magnets, mugs, name it! I brought my Puerto Galera designed shirt at 90 pesos and my friend got a Henna tattoo, 50 pesos for that starry design.

Overall, Puerto Galera is indeed a Paradise. People going here cannot only go to night parties, bond with friends and loved ones but can also connect to Mother Nature. Lots of natural resources that are not only good for your eyes, but activities that will help you see how blessed we are with these heavenly-made environment.

If you want to book at Manalo's Lodge and Restaurant for a great deal, please check their facebook page for the rate and promos and their contact info:

https://www.facebook.com/Manalolodgeandrestaurant?ref=br_tf

Thanks for reading and have a blessed day!