Ah, my tour was a mixed of helluva emotions. I tripped, I fell, I marveled, I laughed. But along the way, there had some instances where I have to take a rest, especially when I bled profusely. Lesson learned: it takes painstaking effort to rehash this written outputs.
Sabi ngani sa advertisement ni Manny Villar (a rescued OFW) "inalipin ako, dinugo, lumuwa ang bowa" ko..."
Anyway, highway, retrace your places. These are your rough drafts which you sent through email. **********************************************************************************
By the sea
There’s no place like home, whatever it may be – a haven or a hell. It is where my heart will always look for. Wherever I may journey, it’s the home that’ll always pull me through. Moreover, lots of my characteristics, values, beliefs and attitudes were greatly influenced by the environment where I was raised. So let me give you a peek of my life and my place.
My place may not be as famous like Boracay but it’s known for mysticism. Travelers who visit Catanduanes are amazed by the complexity of its weather. Moreover, winds on our island seem to whisper enchanting words where it got its name “Land of the Howling Winds.”
I was raised and grew up at the heart of the island. My home is just a walk away from the sea wall that borders the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the reasons why I just couldn’t get enough of my place – its distance to one of the biggest body of water in the world. This has been my source of inspiration for dreaming more. I love to watch sunrise in that area. Every morning when I wake up early, it is my routine to wait for the sun to peep through the horizon.
Even though my place is not that rural, one thing I love about it is the different fruit trees that abound in our back yard. This had been my playground during my childhood days. My mother would scold me when I climb the up the tree to get those Indian mangoes that were not yet ripe but were already whetting my appetite. My mother loves plants and so do I. We see to it that we keep our backyard green. Aside from fruit trees, we also have beautifully colored orchids and other flowering plants.
Its accessibility to market and other commercial establishments makes my place more convenient to live in. I did not find difficulty in going to school because it’s just one ride away from the school where I spent my high school days. And now, it is already my workplace. This is the place where I grew up and will still be the same place where I would spend and raise my family. - Mary Rose Sta. Rosa
Experience San Miguel
( A Glimpse to the Heart of Catanduanes)
At the heart of the Catanduanes island, the land of the howling winds, lies the picturesque and mountainous town of San Miguel. Teeming with natural resources. Rich in culture and tradition. Overflowing with warmth and gentleness of its people. San Miguel is an enchantment to behold and experience.
Experience its beauty. Awesome and breathtaking scenery greet every visitor when they travel to the magical Solong Falls. It is just one of the numerous waterfalls which the town boasts of. Its clear waters and enigmatic appeal are incomparable to the beaches of Boracay and Amanpulo. Mountainous and slopy, San Miguel is blessed with cool weather, the musky breeze of mountain air, the fragrance of the most important fiber – the abaca and the richness of the mighty Bato river which serves as the fish bowl of every hardworking San Migueleno. The beauty is unsurpassed when you take the scenic route to visit the entire town and its barangays. The road to Baguio City finds its able opponent. Fun and adventure leaves a weary traveler energized and uplifted.
Experience its history. San Miguel is a town so young yet so rich in its historical and cultural heritage. Formerly known as Aguas, San Miguel blooms into one of the most important towns in the province. Legend has it that a giant fish called Aguas landed on this place after a great flood. Its eyes were as big as a plate and scales as big as a winnower. Villagers feasted on it and agreed that the place be called Aguas. Later in time, it became San Miguel after Don Miguel Triumfante , Juez De Canado of Bato because of his great service to its people. A former barrio of Bato arose to become San Miguel, a town of warm and hardworking people. A town where the traditional curtsy of addressing the elderlies “May” and “Pay” continues to live.
One cannot complete a great experience without nurturing the warm greetings and smiles of every San Mugueleno. “Dagos tabi kamo” as everyone says marks the invitation that everyone is invited for an experience-of-a-lifetime.
Experience San Miguel. - Rey King Bernal
Come... yes, here...
Are you fond of visiting places? Well, I tell you, my place is one of the many spots you have to visit. This is one of the historical places in our province. This is where you can find the Holy Cross Shrine in our barangay. Many devotees of our Shrine have testified that there is something miraculous in the Holy Cross. They claimed that the holy water from the well can cure illnesses.
How can a curious traveler reach my place? Well, you have your choice; pedicab, tricycle, motorcycle, jeep or your own Pajero. It’s only about two and a half kilometers from Bato town proper. You will spend about five to ten minutes traveling from the town to our barangay.
Just relax as I tour you in our accommodating place. This is the starting point of our final destination. We have here on our left the Bato Catholic Cemetery.
Okey, let’s go – we are now traveling the Bato to Batalay expressway; this is what we called “banyaga”. Looking at your left and right is the wide rice field of the town folks.
So, we are now in our place. Welcome to Batalay! This is only the entrance to our paradise.
Let’s proceed. Look at that! It’s our municipal Mayor’s rest house. A few meters away is our beach. I am sure you will feel relaxed here. The sea water is so tranquil, yet, inviting you to join and play with her.
Smell the fresh air and feel the refreshing and cool water. But then, this is not yet our final destination. We have to reach the Shrine.
Ready? It would take us about three minutes from this place.
Here we are! This is our barangay plaza and as we cross that bridge you will notice that small body of water, it’s a swamp; it gives us shell, fishes and crabs.
Let’s proceed. About another three minutes from here will be the Shrine.
At last! Here we are. This is our Holy Cross Shrine. This is the heart of our place. Because of this, our place became known to many and this binds us with our fellow believers and most especially to our Dear Creator, through our religious activities.
How do you feel right now? Tired? Maybe, but I know that you had a great time traveling with me and especially you experienced the beauty of our place.
Next time? I am looking forward on it.
- Melody Temones
San Miguel, My Hometown
My hometown is located at the center of Catanduanes Island. From school at the Catanduanes State Colleges we ride at the tricycle with 8.00 fare through the terminal. There are two alternative rides either tricycle or jeep with the same fare 20.00, with separate terminal. The tricycle terminal can be found at the side of Virac Supermarket in front of the Dyna Mega hardware, while the jeep terminals located at the side of Catanduanes Colleges at the back of Bato terminal.
If you want to go to our place in a very short time you may ride at the tricycle, because with seven passengers they already bead them way to San Miguel it is about 15 to 20 minutes, however in the jeep they travel at about 10 to 15 minutes. The advantage through is you may seat comfortable and properly and they travel with 16 passengers.
It's about 12 kilometers away from Virac. During your travel you may see the San Vicente Beach Resort “Roadside" and Bato Bridge which is considered the longest bridge in the Catanduanes as well as the Balongbong Falls.
May I invite you this coming May 7-8 the town fiesta of my hometown. You will enjoy watching the different activities prepared by the different barangays. Some of the activities that will be performed are “Search for Ms. Gay Earth" and street dancing with abaca presentation. We will visit also the Solong Falls and you will enjoy watching the water falls and feel and smell the freshness of the air.
- Margie Tosoc
Mara uya samo
I would like to invite you in our place this summer. From Virac you can ride in a cab or tricycle in going Bato. The fare is P17.00 only. Upon reaching the long bridge of Sipi, you see the downtown are of Bato. It is really a beautiful place. It's fun to visit our place. You will enjoy many things like riding in a bicycle with side car or sikad-sikad; enjoy buying fresh fruits, vegetables, sweet foods made from pili nut, camote, cassava, and others.
There are also handicrafts made from abaca like slippers, fan and bags. We have also our mini store at Bato proper the "RJ STORE". We have friendly salesladies who will help you of your needs. You can shop here anytime from 6:30-8:00 pm Monday to Saturday. There are lots of things to buy like jewelry, cosmetics, shoes, sandals, clothes, plastic ware and kitchen ware. For Sunday worship, you can visit the Bato church. It is really big and unique, you will enjoy the quiet time with the Lord in this church. So, I'm really inviting you to come to our place. I assure you! you will have more fun and exciting experience in your place.
- Jocelyn Tenoria
Mus na kita sa amo
Hi Sir, firstly I would like to introduce myself before inviting you to see our place. I am Mrs. Elvera T. Tapas Teacher 1 of Bato Central Elementary School, handling Grade I class for almost 19 long years.
Our place is an enjoying town of Bato, where beautiful and high mountains are located. During the Palarong Bicol, the Iriga Delegation stayed in our place for almost a week and they said that Bato is a nice place to stay because of its clean surroundings, educated and hospitable people.
A few kilometers away going to the east part is Batalay, one of the nearest barangays of Bato. Here you can see the beautiful rest house of our Mayor, Eulogio R. Rodriguez who always welcomes people to visit our place.
A few meters away is the Batalay Chapel. It is located on the roadside going to Bote.Near this chapel is the Batalay Beach where you can feel the freshness of the air and clean water that seems to invite you to swim with your family.
Our residence is located at Banawang Bato, near the Bato Rural Development High School.Feel free to come our town and visit our nice places.
- Elvie Tapas
San Andres, my hometown
My place is about 17 kilometers away from Virac Downtown. I usually ride on a jeep or in a tricycle to reach my destination.
There are lots of tourist spot that can be found there. Among of these are: Luyang Cave Park, Amenia Beach Resort, Pasa Tiempo Beach Resort, The Image of Our Lady of Sorrow in which its devotees sacrifice to reach this place especially during the Good Friday.
Even though, some spots in our place is not yet familiar to some tourist, our local government is trying their best to make it attractive to the people.
As of now, the present administration has another plan to make our place attractive to the tourist by adding another tourist spot. It is called “Smiling Risen Christ" which can be found in Mt. Cagmasoso.
If I am going to choose what spot in my place it would be near the seashore. I feel relieved and relaxed if I am in this place because all my worries and problems are taken away by the waves of the sea. I really want to walk along the seashore especially during sunset.
Another place that I can consider as my favorite spot is my bedroom. I consider this place very comfortable because it helps me take a rest after the whole day work. It is also my place where I can have bonding with my sisters.
I hope that you can have some time to visit my place and enjoy some beautiful spots in my place. - Lyn Sumalde
Inward journey
One can be in different places at a certain point in his life. You could feel the coolness of the winter in Korea or the heat of the sun in the Middle East. What if these two places will be fused? Would you still feel the exact temperature of the place?
In a glance you’ll be enlightened, you’ll be mesmerized by the humming of the birds. Every single note that comes out will truly seek and dazzle your senses. Feel the emotions and intense of the voice as you go deep within the thoughts.
You may either run or walk too close but not so intimate. Beware you’ll be leading a path where no one could try to exist even a single stone.
I could feel your steps coming too close. The motions of your body, the music in your system, the stillness of your voice, even the beat of your heart. Take a deep breathe . . . Sh . . . Sh . . . Sh . . . Walk with me. Hold my hand. Tight. Calm. Hush . . . Listen to the tickling of the clock, Twinkling of the stars See with your heart Feel with your eyes Flowers will still bloom.
- Febrianny Tugano
Our dwelling
Ten years ago, my mom and dad decided to buy a parcel of land here in our beautiful place West Garden. This home is not only my parents dream but also mine. At first few months, I got cold feeling over this place because my relatives and friends were left in our old place. At that time, I really feel strange for I know no one here. Only few families were residing here those first few years.
As months went on, I just found my self comfy perhaps, I just used to it. As I start to love this place, my parents were slowly improving our house. With there perseverance and consistence just about three years passed, our dream house finally came true.
Let me invite you to enter its first phase. It has green flat surface covered with fine grass and different kind of plants around it. Here, you can find yourself relaxing. While soothing yourself inside our cottage, you can here the birds serenading you and the warm kiss of air through your cheeks can be felt. We are now about to enter the second phase of our dwelling. The two glass doors are opening. The ambiance within is welcoming. The entire area has high ceiling. The room was filling with furnishings and accessories that would provide a soft spot for visitors to land and relax as they watch their favorite shows on the 32-inch Sony TV. The cozy gathering spot has velvety sofa and the addition of throw pillows in rounds and squares with variant colors.
My mom makes sure there were plants to be natural. This floor contains two rooms; one of these is my mom’s room. Another is a library area so you can read books while waiting. Then, about twenty steps, is our dining area. Lastly, a fewer steps is our two rest rooms.
Now, come let’s see upstairs. Here, we have two special bed rooms for our special guest. At the middle is our master bedroom. Our master bedroom is my most favorite place in our home. Why? It’s because I get everything in our room. I can watch movies and programs in our 32 inches SHARP TV, and if I’m already tired watching, I can surf the net and chat with my friends online.
Finally, we can enjoy chatting and toast for a drink in our bar area. And, if you already wobbly, you can rest and scene the beauty of our place in the veranda.
- Bernadette Jane Gianan
The hidden treasure behind the mountains
Viga, our place is a milestone away from the capital town of Catanduanes. It is fifty-two kilometers away from Virac that it makes some travelers feel bored and fall asleep on the bus while on their way. But if you could just go with me to our place and open your eyes wide while we are on our journey, I assure you, you’ll have a lot of unforgettable experiences which will move your heart.
Let me take you first to the long and winding road. While riding in a bus, as we go on, inhale the fresh air and feel the touch of the cool summer breeze that comes from the spreading trees in the mountainside.
We’re now going up. Ooopps! Look at your right. Can you see that breath taking cliff? I hope you’re not afraid of height. You know, before, I’m scared to pass by this place because of the cliff, but now I’m used to it.
As we are nearing the place Summit the breeze of the air becomes cooler and cooler. Oh! This is like a stairway to heaven. Here we go, we reach barangay Summit. This is already the mountain top and it seems we’re on the top of the world.
Well’ look at that! The sky appears to be a stone’s throw away from us. Now, open your eyes wide and throw your sight to the wilderness. See that awesome overlooking mountains sprinkled with lovely trees.
Wow! The foamy milky fog forms a line and it wraps and hides some trees. It seems to be playing with the trees. Well, you know I often see this scene but for me it’s always new to me each time. You know why? I’m a nature lover, I guess you are too. I can see that you are astonished with the stirring sight. But, let me remind you, we still have to go with our journey.
Alright! Hold your breath! We shall now go down to this long and winding road to our place. Here we go…but, wait! There’s a landslide and the bus could not go along. We have to take off our footwear and cross the landslide. Oh no! We’re on here now. Watch out, there might be some falling rocks and trees. Oh my! Can you feel the sticky mud that tickles your feet? Ew!
Alright we have to transfer to another bus. Now, we are near to my place. I can already smell the boiled cassava from the kitchen of the houses in the barangay near our town.
Hey! Look at that abaca fibers that line and curtain the road in both sides. Our municipality is known to have widespread plantation of abaca, as you notice from the mountainsides. We are now in Barangay Sagrada, about four kilometers from our town.
Look! There’s a tall falls over there. It’s the “Hamitlan” falls. I’ve never gone to that place. They say that the place is very refreshing and the water is cool, but the place is dangerous according to some hearsay.
Okey, we shall now cross Oco bridge, which is three kilometers from Viga. Look at the river, it’s very inviting to swim, but see, there are many carabaos in that river. Hmm… we’re not one of them.
Finally, we are now at the entrance of Viga town. See the vast rice field? The rice are golden yellow and it’s ready for harvest. Know what? Viga is said to be the rice granary of Catanduanes. Here we are. Look, the Town Plaza and Town Church are at your left side by side and at your right is the High School and Municipal Hall side by side. We are now on our home sweet home.
Let me offer you first some snacks before I tour you in our town. How did you find our trip? Is it dizzying, thrilling, enjoying or tiring? Well, I just hope you enjoyed our travel and I hope you’ll love to visit here not just next time but many times.
- Maricel Usero
A place called home
Years ago, our home place seems impossible to reach of any means of transportation, yet I consider it as an amazing, peaceful, and beautiful place, where natural and fresh spring of water flows, a sweet melody song by birds in a gorgeous trees, the lowly sparrow finds a home for her brood and the swallow a nest for herself where she may lay her young.
In winter season, a fog coming down and cold breeze of the air could really touch our delicate skin.
One of my thoughtful moments, I had a profound sense of how this world in which I live and move and have our being – flames out, shines like foil that is shaken against the light; and like the ooze of oil.
Sadly, this home is now seared with trade; bleared, smeared with toil. This beloved home now wears human smudge and shares human smell. The smudge and smell of all but barren soil of bewildering abuse, of disease and pain and strife. Upon this dwelling place, generations have trod, trod, trod…. Leaving behind only footprints but only because they have taken away with them nearly everything that desperate short human arms, tiny hands can grab at and stash away.
It may be hard to believe but it is true that God grandeur still persists in all its gentleness. Still fills the world his grandeur. It is never obliterated. Indeed, this is possible only because in his dwelling place has wonderfully and fearfully made; and because of this, there still lives the dearest freshness deep down things. Still beauty springs forth in our place. Like a comporting mother, his warmly broods over us with warm breast and with bright wings spread over us.
- Junnie Gianan
A place of pleasure and contentment
Our barangay is not only a place where you can find houses ad people. For me, it is a haven where you can find peace, pleasure and contentment.
Gogon is one of the barangays which is a meter away from the sea. You can find interesting things there. Early in the morning, you can see people there going to and fro. Some are busy preparing for school. Some are having their daily exercise; others are busy with their household chores. Those things describe a typical environment.
What makes it different, is though there are lots of houses there, people do not forget the importance of green things growing. There are still big trees, flowering plants and vegetable garden. Some are raising cactuses with different colors- pink, tangerine, yellow and red. All of these are pleasing to the eyes especially when the sun shines brightly and gives its light to the creatures on earth. It adds color to the surroundings wherein the green plants look greener with the sun’s rays. It is also an ideal time to go swimming.
You will just walk a few yards to reach the seashore. You will be refreshed with the cold fresh air and feel good when it reaches your lungs. You should also try walking or running and feel your feet playing with the tiny pebbles and sands.
Try to touch the cold blue sparkling clear sea water and play with the sea waves that crush on the seawall and in the rocks at the seaside.
In this place, you can find peace and contentment. You can also forget your problems for a while. When you get out of the water, you can feel the cold morning air that embraces you, giving a sudden rush of chill. But this is really enjoyable.
- Amor Dolores
Ola to our place!
I am inviting you to my hometown, Bato. From Virac, you will take a thirty-minute ride to go there. Before reaching the town proper you will first pass barangay Marinawa where you will see the mini Hydroelectric Power Plant. After crossing a small bridge from this power plant turn left to visit Maribina falls where water dances gracefully as you see it tumbling from the top of the mountain to the rocky chairs. Standing by the side you will really feel the freshness of the breeze.
After Marinawa, you will proceed and pass the next barangay, Cabugao, where big and beautiful houses and buildings stand along the national road. At Cabugao is the TESDA, a school where students graduate and employ locally and abroad.
Then you will pass barangay Guinobatan. It is overseeing the Bato river mouth connecting it to the Pacific Ocean.
Then pass barangay Sipi where you can now view the town proper like a Garden of Eden with the first beautiful spot, the Bato Church, a more or less forty decade old church. The outer part of the church will tell you its history.
Before Entering barangay Tilis you will cross the wide and long Bato Bridge. While you are there, you will see and feel as if you are at the South Super Highway of the mainland.
Then after the church, a young Vision Bank is standing facing the river. This helps very much Bato folks alleviate its living. Then standing next to it is the Bato Municipal Hall.
Entering the town proper, just proceed to the fourth street, named Salvacion Street, at Barangay Libod Poblacion you can see our house standing. You are most welcome to stay there. While staying there in our place, I can guide you a tour to Batalay beach and Shrine. This shrine is also a historical place that tells others that Batonhons are God-loving and kind. This is also a visiting place for many tourists.
Many visitors had proven and said that we Batonhons are hospitable, a true characteristic of a Filipino. Don’t hesitate to come and visit us. You can ask bato folks the house of Irene Tindugan-Torzar – the principal of San Roque Elementary School.
- Irene Torzar
San Pablo - A Model Barangay
Early in the morning, one can see people jogging on boulevard while the red-orange morning sun comes out. Each and every one is busy with their daily activities. And these all happens in a place called San Pablo. It is near the 'White House,' residence of once ruling political family in the island, and the famous Municipal Hall Virac. In front of it are the beautiful green trees surrounding the Virac Rizal Plaza. The Virac Cathedral Church sits nearby.
The town of Virac, where San Pablo can be found, originated from the word "Burak" which means a beautiful flower. This town has more than twenty barangays. One of them is my beautiful barangay of San Pablo, located near the sea port of Virac.
From the Catanduanes State Colleges along the national road you can see the Virac Public Market which is also adjacent to my barangay, a beautiful place like a simple, clean and pretty lady.
The primary source of living of the people here is selling fishes and meat in the market. Some of them are professionals and government employees like teachers while others are businessman.
Cleanliness is strictly observed here by imposing "Tapat mo, Linis mo" program of the barangay. With the people of my barangay adhering to this campaign, I take pride in my place for its orderliness and cleanliness.
- Ricky delos Santos
Let me be your tour guide, honey…
My place is one of the many spots you need to visit. Why? Because this is one of the historical places in our province and even in our country. What makes it historical? Well, you can find the Holy Cross Shrine in our barangay. Many devotees of our Shrine have testified that there is something miraculous in the Holy Cross. They claimed that the holy water from the well can cure illnesses.
How can a curious traveler reach my place? Well, you have your choice; pedicab, tricycle, motorcycle, jeep or your own Pajero. It’s only about two and a half kilometers from Bato town proper. You will spend about five to ten minutes traveling from the town to our barangay.
Just relax as I tour you in our accommodating place. This is the starting point of our final destination. We have here on our left the Bato Catholic Cemetery.
Okey, let’s go – we are now traveling the Bato to Batalay expressway; this is what we called “banyaga”.
Looking at your left and right is the wide rice field of the town folks. So, we are now in our place. Welcome to Batalay! This is only the entrance to our paradise. Let’s proceed.
Look at that! It’s our municipal Mayor’s rest house. A few meters away is our beach. I am sure you will feel relaxed here. The sea water is so tranquil, yet, inviting you to join and play with her.
Smell the fresh air and feel the refreshing and cool water. But then, this is not yet our final destination. We have to reach the Shrine. Ready? It would take us about three minutes from this place.
Here we are! This is our barangay plaza and as we cross that bridge you will notice that small body of water, it’s a swamp; it gives us shell, fishes and crabs. Let’s proceed. About another three minutes from here will be the Shrine.
At last! Here we are. This is our Holy Cross Shrine. This is the heart of our place. Because of this, our place became known to many and this binds us with our fellow believers and most especially to our Dear Creator, through our religious activities.
How do you feel right now? Tired? Maybe, but I know that you had a great time traveling with me and especially you experienced the beauty of our place.
Next time? I am looking forward on it.
- Melody T. Temones
My home
It’s hard for someone like me who does not have a permanent home. My family shifts from different apartments to rented houses to shelter ourselves. As for the moment, we are happily living in a three-story house near the Nazareno Chapel at San Roque, Virac. You have to pass through a narrow”eskinita” first to get through there. And as soon as you reach our place, green and blossoming plants will welcome you. It emphasizes our cream-colored house which gives a more earthly vibes.
Upon entering our door, you’ll see our minimalist sala, dining area and our kitchen, just like any other homes here in the Philippines. It is where I spend most of the time with my family- bonding with my kids, having movie marathon and of course having our meals together.
Upstairs in the second floor, we have here two rooms which serve as the bedroom. One is for my son and the other is for my two daughters. The master’s bedroom is located at the first floor near to our sala. On the other hand, the third floor is unoccupied. Although our home is small the ambiance is do great; it is very peaceful and quiet; it is a place where you could really find rest and serenity. Only the laughter and chatting of my kids are what you’ll often hear which brings more life to our simple home.
Being a wife and a mother to my three kids, I make sure that this home will keep my family safe and sound. I always wanted a home where my family will not just be feeling at home but also being home. As for what other has said, “being home is different from feeling at home because when you’re home, you don’t have to adjust at every moment.’ I am worried that my family especially the kids would find hard time to adjust our situation of transferring from different houses.
Fortunately, we found this home where I believe that each of us feels lucky to have this place. And what matters is we are happily living together. For a home does not simply means a place to sleep, eat, rest and play, but a place where you feel totally complete.
- Janette G. Gaters
Calatagan Elementary School
Calatagan Elementary School is the fountain of wisdom of its young residents and its nearby barangays. This is where I belong.
Coming from the towns of Virac and San Andres, also called Calolbon, you see this place of young people wanting to serve God and who wants to make it their lifetime vocation. Their formation center is the Fiat House, one of the famous landmarks in near Calatagan area.
Adjacent to this is a crossroad where plants grow abundantly. The fragrance of different flowers will greet you a nice day when you enter at this kingdom. Every tree has its own community of birds chirping with happiness all day. This is where the Calatagan Elementary Schools sits serenely.
At the Calatagan Elementary School you will feel the coolness of spring as you enter in every classroom. The teachers can be seen busy molding the minds of their
At one side of the school, you will experience the healing power of green things growing. You need not go to the drugstore when you feel dizzy from whole day work. Just a gaze at these greeneries will make one relaxed.
This is Calatagan, a place closest to my heart. – Antonia Tabinas
The Bato PNP: At the forefront of maintaining the town’s peace and order
Peace and order situation in the municipality of Bato is excellent. This can be attributed to the conduct of and continuous visibility patrol accorded by the elements of Bato Municipal Police Station, Bato, Catanduanes.
The implementation of rules or ordinances and laws are fully implemented by the local government of Bato under the leadership of Honorable Mayor Leo Rodriguez with the support of the Sangguniang Bayan of Bato is ever vibrant.
Aside from this, it is with deep pride that Bato has developed tourist destinations; the Sakahan Beach Resort, overseeing the “Nagngangangang Buwaya” Point just about fifteen-minute ride from Bato Poblacion, and the Maribina Falls in Barangay. Sibacungan which are both adjacent to the Poblacion.
These significant achievements are realized through the active support and partnership of the community and the local government of Bato.
The people of Bato now recognize the strength and sacrifices of the local government of Bato in realizing the vision and objective of the municipality.
Our constituents will be always be assured to live and work in a safe and peaceful community.
- Frank Rojas
Come to So-ok
Zigzag road, dusty and mountainous ─ you can encounter these as you visit So-ok.
It takes a mile to travel to this place and makes your body ache but to reach this beautiful spot relieves and relaxes one's mind and spirit.
I have been here for quite long time and this beautiful place which is located in the middle of the forest and nestled between two mountains is still insulated from busy world.
I have been here once and its too far from my grandfathers’ place. And yet, I can still remember the beauty of this virgin forest. So-ok proves that we could still save our mother Earth from the ill effects of modernity.
I remember the cool breeze , the rice plants dancing and the birds singing under the trees, flying freely and the fruits with different types and tastes, sizes and colors. This is a place where I enjoyed the gift of God and filled my memory.
So-ok, is indeed a beautiful spot with full of surprises for a child. It gave beautiful memories worth remembering.
This place reminds me to always enjoy nature's bounty and praise Gods for His gift.
- Evalinda Tatel
ODE TO MY DIFFERENT VOYAGE IN LIFE
A Travelogue to Fatherhood
It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us fathers and sons.
- Johann Schiller
- Johann Schiller
I went to Bazaar on my birthday to buy three pair of socks and thought about life which I do seldom.
Indeed, life is better now, I consider; like an old school waiting its new students after the worn-out summer flee to its own vacation. Old school is used to changes; that could be like my 22 years of defying gravity and wondering when is the right time to learn. After implacable family conflicts, I learned to breathe air again, but alone.
Two days from now God will see the gift He gave me in His sacred altar. My one and a half month daughter will be spelled of holy water to avow religion she is unknown of. I am so happy that God gave me the Gift, only except that it was delivered to me like an Express Padala knocking at my door at 12:00 midnight while everybody was snoring soundly.
Too young, too early, they say. Anyhow, I’ll be used to surprises and changes as life goes on. When you love the thing most it costs the happiness you don’t want to lose. Nobody can buy it except when God wants to wholesale it from you. God give me this gift at the right time with the wrong life. I know there is no such thing as wrong time; it’s always the wrong life. If God thinks I deserved the most precious gift in the world, I’m thankful and happy. I am happier.
I went to the second floor of the miniature mall to find suit socks. I picked two black, the other dirty white. I fetch my five-hundred peso bill from my chained pocket, and look seemingly different to the cashier at the counter. Will she think or recognize me as a father? I hardly had time deciding what are the best socks for my 22 years old restive feet but I think this is not the standard to disqualify me of being a good father. Who cares for the socks with nothing to please but my unpretentious down-to-earth feet? It doesn’t require tough decision that would cost your future.
I paid the price; got my change and the gift of three pair of socks. For one hundred twenty pesos price of my gift to appease my 22 years existence, I discounted everything what a father needs to have. I learned how to think life and thanks God that day.
These socks brought me wisdom to continue tread my life’s road.
- Adem Nalu V. Rubio
