Lakwatsarah

Last Wednesday, me and my friends agreed to meet at Alabang Town Center for some good talk over dinner. It's our way catching up and our way to relax, burst out those stress and to just basically appreciate that sense of togetherness, the bond that started when we were still in our teeny bopper years. :) It's Christmas at Alabang Town Center

A day before our scheduled flight back to Manila, Ate Mechie, my sister Karen and I headed for a short stop at the town's Kablon Farm Store along Alunan Ave. in Koronadal city for some healthy pasalubong shopping.  Kablon Farm Store

Philippines is now celebrating for yet another victory from the country's sports icon and number one pound for pound best boxer in the world, Manny Pacquiao. His yesterday's victory made me remember my Gensan visit some few months ago, the night I was able to see the outside of his newest building in General Santos, the JMP Building situated just few feet from my aunt's steak house . I was excited to see the inside of the building then, but alas something happened with the building's generator that very night, just some few minutes after we finished our dinner.

As part of my Halloween post, I would like to track back in time and share my overnight stay inside Bahay na Pula . Yup, that's the famous haunted house in San Idelfonso, Bulacan. Bahay na Pula (photo credit: chrisbanez.multiply.com) It was around 7am when our production team arrived in Bahay na Pula, we needed to shoot a lot of scenes here for one of our episodes. Seeing our taping guide, I bet we will be working here until past midnight.

"Submitted for the approval of the Midnight Society, I call this story..." Do you guys remember that horror series way back when we were just teens? I was such a fan of that show during my grade school years! Members of that "Midnight Society" would camp their way to the woods and a member would tell a scary story and begins by saying, "Submitted for the approval of the midnight society, "I call this story the Tale of ..." - that statement gave fame to the much watched TV series, Are You Afraid Of the Dark? In just a few days, we will be remembering our departed loved ones. As Filipinos, we also love to scare ourselves by watching horror flicks most especially during Halloween . Now why not revive the "Are you afraid of the dark" moment? It's really easy. Gather your friends or family members and set  up a campfire within your garden space and start sharing your most interesting scary story! It's cheap, nostalgic and spooky! And

Fresh from the success of the Maiden of the Sea , Manila Ocean Park now introduces this new Musical Fountain Show - Once Upon an Ocean! Best part is, you can see this spectacular water fountain exhibition for just Php50 if you register online (check out their website www.manilaoceanpark.com) Watch the video of Maiden of the Sea and get a feel of what this musical fountain show is all about. This October, Manila Ocean Park announced that entrance to Manila Ocean Park is FREE! And fees only apply when you enter their attractions. Don't have any idea what's inside MOP? Then check this video I made during our Manila Ocean Park Day Tour :) 

I have always been fascinated by the charm a kalesa has, its rustic country charm appeal makes this one unique Philippine tourism symbol. This horse driven carriage was introduced in 18th century and since then became one of the modes of transportation. Imagine it being used for personal travel by rich Filipinos or Ilustrados.

SM Mall of Asia becomes more alive as the sun begins to set. Its Seaside Boulevard has been attracting families, friends and yuppies out there enjoying the lights, sounds and Manila Bay's cozy sights especially during Fridays where young crowds could stay late partying or just simply chilling out. "Colours of the Road" shot at the Seaside area of MOA 

My mom told me that my first ever plane flight was when I was just 6 months old. That was the time my parents decided to leave the province and settle in Manila. Since then, flying in a plane from Manila to General Santos or Davao has always been an interesting experience. I remember myself being the curious little girl, gently seated in this huge chair sitting for an hour and 45 minutes before touchdown with the seat belt as my toy.  And how could I forget that infamous sweet candy ball given by a lovely stewardess that unfortunately to be blamed for breaking my little innocent tooth! That jawbreaker!!!  I therefore realized as I grew, plane flights can have their own scary moments. hues of blues: Philippine skies

" Talakudong " is a neo-ethnic festival that blends Maguindanaon Muslims and Illongo Christian culture into a colorful and exotic exhibition of headgears indigenously made out of local materials. Schedule of Activities August 18 - September 10, 2010      1st Toda Basketball Tournament at City Gym September 4- 5, 2010      Inter-school Table Tennis Tournament at City Gym September 6 - 20, 2010      Trade Fair at Quezon Avenue September 11, 2010      Region 12 Taekwondo Championships at 1pm in City Gym September 12, 2010      Mutya ng Lungsod ng Tacurong 2010 (Talent Night) at 7pm  in NDTC Gym September 11 - 12, 2010      Mobile Passport Service for e-passport at City Hall September 13 -18, 2010      DTI Diskwento Fair, Producers Fair Industrial Tour at City Hall Compound September 13, 2010      Inter-Faith Mass Opening Program at 7am in City Ground      San Miguel Beerfest (Beer Drinking Contest, Live Band Jam etc.) at 7pm in City Ground September

Just some 20 minute ride from my house is Nuvali . Yet for some reason, I wasn't able to see the place...until now. Hanging out one lazy Saturday afternoon with my great friends Ava and MC, they agreed to take me to see the place. We drove down SLEX and took the Sta. Rosa Exit. They weren't really that excited for as they say, there really is nothing much to see. Well, that being said, I still insisted. I wanted to satisfy my curiosity! :) Nuvali Fish Feeding Area As we were nearing Nuvali, I can't help but reminisce those crazy taping days we had during the production of Star Magic Presents Abt Ur Luv , where we taped most of the scenes in the many houses inside Avida. It was nostalgic. And then we were there...

Ber months has definitely started and the season spells travel time! Have you chosen your target destination during the recent Philippine Travel Mart ? Well, now's the perfect time to gear it all up! Domestic destination are now on sale for as low as P499! Cebu Pacific steps up once again to boost tourism traffic. These seat sales are up for grabs! P499 'Go Lite' seats - Manila going to Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, Catarman and Kalibo P599 ' Go Lite' seats - Manila to Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Roxas P699 'Go Lite' seats - Manila and Cebu to Puerto Prinsesa It's also a perfect time to enjoy these leisure routes (Manila-Dumaguete and Manila and Cebu to Boracay (Caticlan)) for just P899. Looking forward to go to Hongkong or Macau? Fly Cebu pacific with fares up to 40% P1,499 'Go Lite' seats - Manila and Clark to Hong Kong                                      Clark to Macau P1,999 ' Go Lite' seats - Cebu to Hong Kong                             

Arranged by the Philippine Tour operators Association (Philtoa) in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Philippine Travel Mart is the country's biggest travel and tourism trade show. This year, the fair will be promoting the Philippine's must see islands, thru booths offering regional delicacy samples, local handicraft displays and programs for cultural immersion.

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES September 3 2010, Friday 8:30am - 8:45am        Opening Ceremony 9:00am - 10:00am      Opening Program 10:00am - 11:00am    Foot Parade 10:30am - 3:00pm      Biyahe Exchange 11:00am - 1:00pm      Philtex Foreign buyer's lunch 1:00pm - 1:30pm        Posh and Aphelion Trio by Resorts World Manila 2:30pm - 3:00pm        Presentation from Tieza 3:15pm - 3:45pm        Presentation from Subic Bay 4:00pm - 4:15pm        San Miguel Beer drinking challenge 5:00pm                       Cultural Show Competition September 4, 2010. Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm      Biyahe Info 10:30am - 11:00am    Tourism Quiz Bee 11:15am - 11:45am    Presentation from Smart Communications 12:00pm - 12:30pm   Badu Fashion Show, Davao Ethnic Designs by Alfonso Guinoo 12:45pm - 1:15pm     Posh and Aphelion Trio by Resorts World Manila 1:30pm - 2:00pm       Presentation from Primer Group of Companies 2:15pm - 2:45pm       Presentation from Tieza 3:00pm - 3:30pm       Pr

After watching Karate Kid in Robinsons Gensan, auntie Norma treated us for an all-girls night out with a fab dinner in her recently acquired steak house - the Hayts Steyk Hauz . A charming kubo style resto welcomed us along with her friendly staff. Hayts Steyk Hauz

Announcing to all travel enthusiasts out there! This coming September 3-5 2010, Philtoa will host its  21st Philippine Travel Mart  to be held at the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.  Read more for the schedule Check out the opening day of the 21st Philippine Travel Mart

Located at Purok Yellow Bell, New Isabela stands the biggest medical facility found in Tacurong City - the St. Louis Hospital . St. Louis Hospital's facade I was able to go inside the hospital just 2 days after it opened together with my uncle who's a doctor and his assistants. The exterior had truly blown me away! Geez, this is not a hospital... it looks like a Resort! It's undeniably charming for a hospital, way different from others around. The hospital is owned by the Valdez Family, prominent individuals in the medical and political field in the city of Tacurong. Here are some of the photos taken: charming exteriors entrance inside St. Louis Hospital For inquiry you can contact St. Louis Hospital at (064) 3841669

My parents would always make sure to bring me and my siblings to their respective farms whenever we get a chance to spend some long vacations at the province. I will never forget my very first farm trip experience – my first ride on top of a carabao, when we ate our lunch placed in banana leaves, the thrill I felt walking in the rice field, how I was amazed by the way the locals pick their fruits, my first taste of a sugar cane…and I was so young back then! These memories that retained in my young mind inspire me to know more about how life in a farm is. Yes, it always excites me to see new sites but what I love the most about travelling is visiting the familiar places that bring back some good old memories – like a Farm ! rice field

Location: Somewhere in Sultan Kudarat

With El Nino getting on our nerves last summer, it is good to know there's that ideal place to satisfy our thirst located at the heart of South Cotabato - introducing Apareja Buko Halo Halo , Koronadal's tasteful defense to beat the summer heat! Apareja Buko Halo Halo After hanging out at Lake Sebu , my uncle treated us for a heavenly merienda treat before going home. Apareja serves the freshest buko halo halo harvested from the owner's buko plantation. Honestly, I'm not a buko lover, but what was served right in front of me is just irresistable! Halo Halo in Buko serving Their buko halo halo is priced at P55. The place is frequented both by the locals and tourists who enjoy consuming this cool, fresh and hearty serving, truly a must-try for every food lovers out there. On the side note, "halo-halo" is a popular Filipino dessert that is a mixture with a shaved ice cream and milk,  topped with a variety of local fruits such as avocado, banana, langka an

The Hundred Islands National Park (Pangasinan: Kapulo-puloan or Taytay-Bakes) is in the province of Pangasinan in northern Philippines. It is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. The islands (124 at low tide and 123 at high tide) are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and cover an area of 18.44 square kilometres (4,557 acres). They are believed to be about two million years old. Only three of them have been developed for tourists: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children's Island. The islands are actually ancient corals that extend well inland, in an area previously comprising the seabed of an ancient sea. Lowering sea levels have exposed them to the surface and the peculiar "mushroom"-like shapes of some of the islands have been caused by the eroding action of the ocean waves. (from wikipedia)

Undoubtedly one of Lake Sebu's main attractions is its zipline ride. I have always anticipated the day I will experience how it feels to fly above Lake Sebu's scenic Seven Falls . I'm getting more excited as the big day comes closer. I have been building the courage to brave the zipline ever since my aunts told me about it. Also, I will need some shots for my Lake Sebu Tourism Video project. Unfortunately, at that very day, I opted to delay my longing to try this adventure as my health at that time is not on its perfect condition. So I satisfied myself on cheering for my other companions and made sure to just capture the best shots possible.

Getting around Lake Sebu is a total breeze (I mean literally!). You see, the province's local transportation itself known as skylab aka habal-habal is an exciting road trip experience that's definitely worth a try. Unlike other provinces, the place serves no tricycles or public utility jeeps. It's either you bring your own car or hop on the skylab experience! lake house at Lake Sebu

Leading the ancient art of T'boli Textile Weaving is T'nalak Master Weaver and National Living Treasure awardee, Lang Dulay . Lang Dulay in her 90s

Every nature lover would surely love to visit Lake Sebu again and again. I have visited the place since 1996 and it never fails to surprise me every time I go back, the place has always something new to offer - new activity, newly discovered spot or the many developments of the province. So let me share with you some of my favorite photos captured using my Canon IXUS 80IS. view as seen from Balben Family Cove check out Balben's Family Cove's official website here

I woke up early on July 18, 2010. My much awaited day since I will be seeing for the very first time the T'nalak Festival Parade . With much anticipation, I walked fast the T'nalak Agri Fair and hurriedly made my way to the main street of Koronadal. At 7 in the morning, the weather isn't that great, it was gloomy. Just as the music started, the rain is slowly making its move, anxiously waiting for the big drops.

Being a self confessed fan of my beloved Lake Sebu province, I tried to creatively produce this video for tourists and travelers alike who wanted to go to Lake Sebu but is unclear of what to expect from this southern part of the region. Well if pictures tell a thousand words, then the next videos can surely inspire you to pack your bags and plan your first or next Lake Sebu trip!

Ending my 2 month long vacation at South Cotabato, I decided to take my last few days and spend some few hours with my relatives in Lake Sebu. As we are nearing Balben Family Cove, we were amazed at a surprising welcome sight as thick mists of fog enveloped our road path some few meters from the family property. This is our first extreme fog experience here at Lake Sebu!

On the 44th Foundation Anniversary of South Cotabato, the province celebrates its much awaited festivity - the 11th T'nalak Festival 2010 . Protech Center Entrance Gate

My dad would always bring home sticks of delicious chicken BBQs every time he arrives from General Santos City. Later, I found out the name of this delectable dish me and my family truly enjoy - Nadies Chicken House. Nadies famous Chicken BBQ

Some few minutes from General Santos Airport, travelers can check out one of this province's famed spots - Sarangani Highlands Garden and Restaurant . Saranggani Highlands entrance There, we took an early lunch. The site boasts a panoramic view of the Sarangani Bay, beautifully carved bonsai plants and other vibrant ornamental.

Braving the roughest and rockiest mountain path up the steep highways on the way to Pulang Lupa in Lake Sebu via the habal-habal, my fearless soul (or trying to be one, at least) definitely went up high! amazing mountain views on the way I was ecstatic when my dear Aunt Malen invited me to come with her to visit her T’boli friend last summer. She then animatedly pointed out a particular mountain just in front of Balben Family Cove, candidly telling me, “Sa kabila ng bundok nyan tayo aakyat”. I just smiled, thinking she was practically joking around. Next thing I know, I was going through the most exhilarating road trip experience of my lifetime!

Armed with a Lake Sebu brochure, me and cousins Marianne and Charlen went resort hopping last June. From our start off point at Balben Family Cove , our first stop for the day is Lake Sebu's Tourism Lodge. Tourism Lodge Lemobung Lodge and Restaurant also known as Tourism Lodge is owned by the Local Government Unit. The site brings back old memories - flashback 1996, that was the first building we visited for a very short stop over. Anyway, we tried to get their brochure but were informed that their office is open only during Mondays to Thursdays, that day was a Friday. So off to our next stop, the Monte Cielo Resort .

With a very cheap entrance fee of P5 for adults and P2 for students and children, one could already explore about Lake Sebu's famous t'boli community here at their simple but charming Tiboli Museum . Visit this T'boli Museum and see a collection of antiques and artifacts in a building patterned into a traditional t'boli house. Try playing their eye-catching kulintang or try on some of their native costumes. Here, you'll learn about T'boli Tribe's arts and culture by checking on their tinalak dresses, brass sculptures, colorful accessories, native musical instruments and a number of photos. Watch the video below to see the interiors of this humble museum and learn more about the T'boli Tribe This video is just a part of Lake Sebu Tourism Video . To see more of Lake Sebu, check this out .

I first heard of habal-habal during my past visits to Lake Sebu but didn't had the chance to actually experience it. This summer of 2010, I made sure to not only experience it but most importantly enjoy it. the third motorcycle from right could sit up to 5 passengers Habal-habal or in Lake Sebu's local term ' skylab ' is the province's primary mode of public transportation. A  modified motorcycle that could sit of up to 5 medium built passengers.

Standing majestically at 70 ft. high, Lake Sebu's Falls 2  of the series of Seven Falls is definitely one of the province's tourist pride. a splash of rainbow adds charm to Lake Sebu's 2nd of the 7 Falls

I have gone back and forth many times at Lake Sebu. It is my family's favorite vacation spot. For the past recent years,  my relatives have been raving about the many falls they've been to, including Lake Sebu's 7 Falls . This 2010, these series of  falls top my summer list of my "Destination Must-See".   Falls 1

It's one thing being close to the lake, but it's also another thing seeing the complete picture of the lake from afar... I have always been fascinated about how Lake Sebu looks from afar, and boy was I so lucky to have seen it. I was grateful and more than satisfied! Lake Sebu view from the mountain top

General Santos Airport has always been my entry point every time I get to visit my home province in South Cotabato. a fun colorful welcome

I had the chance to catch a quick look up on the forested mountains of Lake Sebu during our family’s Gift Giving Mission to the Tiboli Tribe . This summer of 2010, I came back along with new found friends as well as adventure seeking relatives for the much awaited hiking activity. Giant tree of Lake Sebu

Two years after my last visit at the NAIA Terminal 2 , also known as Centennial Airport , I’m back for another trip, thrilled with much excitement taking off with my first ever solo flight. Naia Terminal 2 | check in area for Domestic flights I arrived at the airport 2 hours before my schedule departure time. Hungry for food, I scouted all stalls at the departure hall trying to choose stuffs to satisfy my crave.

Laguna is not only well known for the many public and private resorts, high end real estate subdivisions, buko pie or lanzones, it is also noted for its famous Pagsanjan Falls! Oh yes, we do love Pagsanjan ! Clearly a picturesque site, it's one of the most frequented location for TV shows and movies requiring scenes for either a barkada outing, a Vietnam looking set, or just a good provincial setting. Here are some of the pictures taken during our taping. cast having fun at Balanac River

They look like friendliest toy soldiers in pink! My very first glimpse of SM Mall of Asia's Royal Marching Band . The people love them! I saw them last March. They performed for 30 minutes (I think), and it was so much fun watching them play a couple of upbeat music, their interesting blocking and choreography, and of course the color of their outfits would really make you stop and want to see what they're doing. Mall of Asia's Royal Marching Band

Let me just share with you two of the pictures that brings strong memories to our family. The year was 2003, just months after the downfall of Saddam. It was the year that my dad flew to Baghdad, Iraq to work along with the US armies. US armies very much visible along the roads

Remembering Christmas in Tacurong City One of the best memories I had in Tacurong City would be the way its locals celebrate Christmas - warm yet festive, simple yet fancy, inexpensive yet grand. Christmas lights in Tacurong City

Would just like to share this to everyone. It's best to start our day's journey with a prayer. Prayer for Travelers "O Almighty and merciful God, who hast commissioned Thy angels to guide and protect us, command them to be our assiduous companions from our setting out until our return; to clothe us with their invisible protection; to keep from us all danger of collision, of fire, of explosion, of fall and bruises, and finally, having preserved us from all evil, and especially from sin, to guide us to our heavenly home. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen." Share this prayer with every travelers you know. :)

Stepping inside Asian Hospital and Medical Center will get you to wonder if you really are in a hospital. The lobby itself presents a dramatic architecture and avant-garde interiors that creates the hotel - like ambiance. There are times when you get to hear a sweet serenade from a gifted pianist! Asian Hospital lobby http://www.flickr.com/photos/doctony/1336373090/

Dolores Farm Resort If you're from Manila and happen to be in Polomolok, South Cotabato and wanted to try something new and needed a place to stay, better take a look at Dolores Farm Resort . If you seek a taste of some animal adventure, go lake fishing, set eyes on a durian orchard, enjoy a savory seafood meal and authentic Filipino dishes, or dip in a pool surrounded by cool mountain air and fresh tall palm trees, Dolores Farm Resort will truly satisfy your senses for a fun yet relaxing stay at this awesome province.