Fiesta at Town and Country Executive Village

The Philippines boasts an abundance of culture which were passed on to us by many influences (East and West colonization). It also encompasses a wide range of topics like food, language, values, fashion, and festival, to name a few.

Last month, our community had a weeklong fiesta celebration. Fiesta is defined by Merriam-Webster as: festival, a saint's day celebrated in Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines with processions and dances. The Pahiyas Festival I witnessed years ago in Lucban, Quezon is altogether a unique manner of the townsfolks' gratitude to their patron saint for a bountiful harvest (you can view the story from here and here).

I am not a Catholic. Neither did I join in the procession . However, as a member of the TCEV PWD group, I had to be present for the picture taking (at least). This is quite necessary, as explained by our Chairman, to show that we exist, especially after being recognized by our local government last December 2024. 

The procession 

The festival was well attended. I was happy to witness the labor of those individuals who brainstormed, organized, and exerted so much effort to make the event successful. There were kind and generous souls too who donated food. These were served for breakfast after the early procession. 

The palaro or traditional games is one the most awaited event. These were played and enjoyed many decades ago, when life was simpler, minus the presence of gadgets. I enjoyed watching the video, "Huliin ang Biik ni Tonio" the most. The mechanics is simple - to catch the piglet. It seems like an easy game but tedious for the participants who were blindfolded. I'm sure the piglet was stressed too from the manipulative hands who wanted to win. 

There were many other traditional games too like the Pabitin. Here, the contestant, while blindfolded tries to hit the pot with a wooden long stick. Inside the pot are coins and candies. Akyat, Tonyo, Akyat is a bamboo pole where one attempts to  climb to the top. Limbo rock aims the player to pass through a stick without falling. I'm sure the kids of this generation, even the kids-at-heart were delighted to witness such games again.

Video of Huliin ang Biik ni Tonio

Fun Run

More than the fun, excitement, and camaraderie it brought to the entire community, I realized that being involved is vital. It promotes belongingness and togetherness. It also fosters open lines of communication. If these values are applied not only when an occasion happens,  serious problems the community poses (like the unpaid dues and utilities) can be resolved if the majority cooperates and participates. The newly elected board of directors play a significant role in the execution of many projects to maintain order (and fun) within our village.

Videos and photos from the FB Page of TCEV PWD Association

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Pahiyas Festival 2023

 

Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon was once again celebrated after a three year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic last May 15, 2023. It was also our second time to witness this festivity and was my first out-of-town drive this year. (My first Pahiyas festival experience here).

Admittedly, I love everything about nature. I was exhilarated to see the rice fields, the lush trees from the mountains and the lake. We took the Marilaque Hiway route which consisted of many uphill, downhill, and zigzag roads. There were interesting shops along the thoroughfare that promoted the various towns' products. Fresh fruits, a native delicacy called "bibingka," wood crafts, barong tagalog, to name a few were sold. We also passed through some restaurants that were known for their food.


I was happy to witness the various tourists - young, young-at-heart, locals, foreigners and those in-between. Like us, they too were eager to view the intricately decorated houses with crops. To encourage the residents to join and "dress" their homes, monetary rewards were given by the sponsors. It was a good way to boost tourism and the town's economy. We managed to bring home some of their delicacies like the longganiza and cookies from Pavino's.  

The drive was a refreshment to my parents. My father had three procedures for his posterior cataract removal recently. His medical journey lasted for seven months. The doctors' clinic (opthalmologist and internist) were the places he frequented then. 

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Rizal: My Top 3 Destinations

Rizal boasts of beautiful places far different from the concrete buildings, traffic, and noise of a city. You need not travel up north to experience the cool breeze nor to a faraway place to distress. I've been to several sites in the past and my top favorites are the following:

1. Little Baguio of Antipolo

The road - very charming with tall and lush pine trees lined up on both sides of the two-kilometer (or so) stretch. My eyes were delighted to witness a view I don't get to see on a daily basis. My ears were happy at the sound of cicadas as if they were welcoming us once I lowered the vehicle's side window. The air, cool, although the sky abounded with feathery clouds.

We learned that the the Araneta's own the property. It's an added attraction to those who prefer to discover and reconnect with nature (rather than the usual trip to the mall) and was only open to the public this pandemic.

2. Martessem Resort

The picturesque view of the Sierra Madre is best viewed here. Guests can dine in their restaurant, book a room for a staycation, and enjoy activities like swimming, horseback riding, and fish feeding. Martessem Ressort FB Page

3. Tanay Highlands

This is the perfect place to admire the magnificence of Pililia windmills, Laguna de Bay and part of Sierra Madre. Admittedly, I am not only in awe but in love. It is arguably the best restaurant with a scenic view!

We heard that it opened on November 2021. A group of college graduates own the place and is still in the process of improving the dining area as well as their menu. Parking will never be a problem; an ample and secure space is provided. Tanay Highlands FB Page

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C6 Road

Security Guard: Saan po kayo?

Me: Interesado po kaming tumingin ng properties (pretended to be a buyer).

Security Guard: Diretso lang po. Pagkatapos ng 1.5 km kaliwa kayo. May mga ahente doon.

And the adventure began.

Our curiosity to see what laid beyond C6 Road Batasan San Mateo brought us to Timberland Highlands Resort. Our eyes feasted on the beauty of the scenery - the cityscape that was truly captivating and breathtaking! The road  was also a far cry from the congestion in the metropolis. 

The road trip, though brief was refreshing.   

Website: Timberland Highlands Resort

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Tanay Highlands

Another spontaneous trip to the East allowed my parents and I to discover a fairly new dining spot, Tanay Highlands Cafe.

Of all the places I've seen around this area, this is spot on! The magnificence  of the Pililia windmills, Laguna de Bay and part of Sierra Madre can be enjoyed. Admittedly, I am not only in awe but in love. It is arguably the best restaurant with a scenic view!

All three tourist destinations in Rizal, including the fresh breeze many long for can be found here. The winding road uphill replete with bountiful trees is a much better sight than the usual traffic and congestion in the metropolitan. 

We heard that it opened only this February 5th. A group of college graduates from Ateneo de Manila own the place and is still in the process of improving the dining area as well as their menu. This is also a better alternative to Tagaytay and Baguio. More so, it is so much closer to Metro Manila. Parking will never be a problem; an ample and secured space is provided. 

The food selection is good enough to pacify the growling tummies of the motorists. They also have a wide array of beverages to satiate one's thirst. I honestly don't mind the previous because the breathtaking view will suffice. 

FB Page: Tanay Highlands

                                                                                            

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Bulawan Floating Restaurant

We discovered another place to hang out in the age of the new normal. It boasts with fresh air, al fresco dining, fishing and boat ride activities as well as an assortment of newly cooked food you can choose from. Bulawan Floating Restaurant is  located along the hiway of East Manila Road in Pililia, Rizal. It also has a scenic view of the tourist attraction, Pililia Windmills.

It was an opportune time to explore a destination we frequently pass by on our various trips around Rizal. We were also intrigued then with their parking area that abounded with vehicles. To kill our curiosity, we braved ourselves to have lunch away from home after my medical checkup.

 

 

 

We ordered calamares (deep fried squid covered in batter) coupled with some crispy kangkong chips. The squid, juicy and tender to the bite. The mayonnaise dip will add just the right flavor to it. The sizzling dish (shrimp, squid, pork and chicken) was also a hit. It was creamy and delectable. Lastly, the grilled eggplant with chopped onions, tomatoes and shrimp paste neutralized the meal. 

 

 

Many families stayed longer as they tried their luck to catch a fish using the bamboo pole. Tilapia and heto were abundant. Patience is required for this leisurely activity. 

As usual, my father and I succeeded in cajoling my mom to have this road trip with us. We are cooped up at home with the surge (again) of the COVID-19 cases. This is indeed a great way to spend the weekend away from home. How was yours? 

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Little Baguio Of Antipolo

My parents and I have been discovering remarkable places with beautiful views around Rizal. Each trip never fails to give me a pleasant feeling and an attitude of gratitude that my senses are perfectly fine despite my inability to walk. 

After visiting the grocery and a quick lunch we got via drive thru, off we went to another adventure. Last week, my father and uncle came to the same place but were not allowed to pass through. I whispered a silent, "thank you, Lord" when the security guards allowed us to get in after a short interrogation. 

Wow!

The road - very charming with tall and lush pine trees lined up on both sides of the two-kilometer (or so) stretch. My eyes were delighted to witness a view I don't get to see on a daily basis. My ears were happy to hear the sound of cicadas as if they were welcoming us once I brought the vehicle's window down. The breeze, cool, although the sky abounded with feathery clouds.

There were many other motorists who, like us were excited to see the beauty of Antipolo's "Little Baguio," situated on Sapinit Road, Barangay San Juan in Rizal. Many stayed longer, got out of their vehicles and spent time posing for a photo. One family was having a picnic as they comfortably sat on a mat that was spread on the grass and leisurely ate the food they brought. Others walked along the road with their pets and kids on their bicycles. It is a conducive place to spend time, enjoy the fresh air and be in  the midst of a magnificent place. 

On the right side is the view of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The opposite is dense with many other trees akin to a mini forest. We also found a nursery that abounded with ornamental plants. 

We learned from the security guards that the property is owned by the Araneta's. Although it was unfathomable for me to initially understand why this endeavor was done, I was glad they did! It's open to the public only this year. It's an added attraction too to those who prefer to discover and reconnect with nature (rather than the usual trip to the mall).  I also learned that some residents are selling the rights of their properties. It would be ideal to have a small house in such environment, like in a quaint painting or a postcard. I can only dream about it but I'm grateful to have the opportunity to visit, even for a fleeting moment.

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Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe

With a bahay kubo-like structure minus the walls, Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe is the go-to restaurant for many bikers or motorcyclists who enjoy the adrenaline rush of passing through the twisting and turning roads of Marilque Hiway. I was initially intrigued with the positive reviews found on their FB page. It was heightened  once I saw their menu because admittedly, the food seemed affordable. Thus I was pleasantly glad we tried here since it did not disappoint.

Once you set foot inside their restaurant, you'll be greeted with the cool air that is gently touching your face. A portion of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, the Laguna de Bay and lots of trees served as a great backdrop instead of the usual blank wall you'll see in a typical restaurant. It is also relaxing to spend some time unhurriedly here, more so if you are a nature lover. The downside was that, you'll have to park your vehicle along the hiway carefully and walk a couple of steps especially if the place is packed with people.

Click for a bigger view and appreciate the beauty

We learned that branch opened only this January after a successful set up of their coffee shop on wheels. They used to have a restaurant along JP Rizal in Marikina but is still close since the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) started last year.

 

Pugon baked meat lovers pizza

Crispy kare-kare

Mushroom burger

Strawberry smoothie

Their menu didn't have so many selections but I now know the reason why people keep on coming back despite the distance from the city. The pizza was really appetizing, oozing with a lot of melted mozarella cheese, pepperoni, smoke bacon and honey ham. It has pugon baked that gave it a distinct taste to it. The kare-kare's meat was indeed crispy and tender. It had a strong taste of the peanut sauce which makes this dish distinct, was tasty even if you forego the bagoong and is best paired with rice. The mushroom burger was shared by my parents. I think they liked it. It was a healthier option (I hope) from the burger fastfood chains we see everywhere. For the beverages, strawbery smoothie and iced cappuccino (not in photo) were as delectable.

Photo from kathyevec

We had an enjoyable time away from our usual routine and definitely a relaxing way to prepare us for the new week's grind.

Kape Natividad FB page 

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Typhoon Ulysses: My First Flood Encounter

Morning of November 12, 2020.  My parents and I were astounded to witness the flood waters rising! It continued to increase as the hours progressed although the strength of the storm was no longer felt.

My niece was optimistically awaiting for the water to enter the house. Equipped with rain boots and accompanied by  her gadget to  overcome boredom, she was sitting patiently  by the door to  welcome it! We even  created  paper boats, saw it sink and laughed! 

Earlier on, my parents thought of elevating the furniture in case the water gets inside our house. Despite their age (both are seniors), they managed to prop the furniture on the batibot and ghost chairs. Their prudence saved us the energy and time to clear the furniture in the living and dining room while the rain water was getting higher. 

Around 4 PM, murky water slowly crept in. The inevitable happened. We had no way to stop it though we remained prayerful and knew that God was in control. 

The anxiety attached to this phenomenon was new to us. We are grateful though that only 2" of rain water went in the house and subsided around 7 PM. My younger brother's family started to clean and clear the area. He disinfected the marble flooring the next day. 

The storm's aftermath was another thing that needed to be tackled; it was physically challenging and time consuming. Due to the stubborn mud and debris, body aches were experienced after days of scrubbing the grounds. We also had a higher water bill. 

Our property is 1.5 to 2 meters high from the street. Many of our neighbors had a hard time slumbering; their beds were dirtied with the flood! We have no right to complain after seeing a horrific situation in Cagayan and Marikina. I was grateful to see the sun shining, signifying hope especially to the affected. We further praise Him for His faithfulness and protection.

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Martessem Mountain Resort

The picturesque view of the Sierra Madre Mountains in the east can be best captured in this resort. It was magnificent, akin to a painting! The very cool breeze was something I also loved compared to the heat back home.

The mountains can serve as a backdrop to highlight a momentous celebration. It is also a great destination if you wish to escape from the congested malls and experience the grandeur of our Jehovah's creation. The nature lovers will nod in agreement with me, I am certain. Similarly, this can be an alternate destination for families and even balikbayans' staycation. A pony ride, a walk to the pool or a visit to their pond filled kois will be a good activity from the usual gadget everyone is crazy about!

Martessem Mountain Resort
Address: KM58, Lansangan Marikina-Infanta,
Tanay, Rizal

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Grateful for Good Samaritans

pluviophile [PLOO vyoh fahyl] : noun

1. a lover of rain

2. someone who finds joy and
peace of mind during rainy days

Living in a tropical country makes me yearn for a cooler temperature when the sun's blazing heat is unbearable and drier days when the rain endlessly falls from the dark clouds. But between the two, I prefer the rainy weather.

I love it when it rains. It reminds me of my younger, carefree days when I gleefully bathed into it. Today, it still has a comforting and relaxing effect on my being just like the trees and the plants that are overjoyed when drenched.

✿✿✿✿✿

Two weeks ago, I lost my ATM/debit card accidentally. After reporting the details to a customer representative, I was relieved to hear that there was no withdrawal attempt made. I also received instructions on the how-to's as well as the documents needed for the replacement card. An affidavit of loss was another requirement I had to obtain. Coincidentally, the bank and the shop where I can have the document stamped were in the same establishment. 

I was overwhelmed with the number of people waiting for their own papers to be released when I reached the shop. While I was contemplating on how I can accomplish my task, a lady suddenly approached me and inquired if I needed to get inside. She proactively asked those who were near the entrance to give way to me (and my wheelchair). The moment I got in, I was appalled with the situation I faced since the counter was higher than myself and I couldn't find any staff! Another kind woman assisted me and in less than five minutes, the document was ready! 

Source: Quotes Thoughts

From my experience, people around me are often helpful. Others may seem apathetic, but by verbalizing that I need assistance, they understand and make my situation less difficult. On the contrary, despite the presence of the Magna Carta Law for the disabled, many are still ignorant of the PWDs' needs. Thank heavens for sending these wonderful individuals!


Have you helped someone recently? How?

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Liliw, Laguna: Home of Quality Footwear and Comfort Food

I love nature! As a Manileño, the congested streets and the sight of harried people everywhere are but a common occurrence since I remember. And I feel blessed that my family and I have transferred to a community way better than our previous because the air is definitely fresher, the environment  more peaceful where I can beautify the haven we call our home.

Last Friday, I was able to cajole my parents for another impromptu road trip to Liliw, Laguna via Teresa where I enjoyed viewing the lush and prolific environment I cannot see in the city. Though the route was farther than in SLEX (South Luzon Express Way); it was definitely more relaxing and enjoyable!

A long stretch of an entire street is replete with stores filled with a variety of local shoes, slippers and bags! Liliw, Laguna is known for this product that are sold all over the country. Surprisingly, the items are very affordable! You can get 3 pairs of slippers for only P100. I was also able to get a braided silver body bag for P170 and mind you, the material though synthetic is soft and looks like the genuine leather. More so, the  quality is excellent.

While going around, we found this interesting building - a restaurant with magnificent facade. Because they served food on the second floor minus an elevator, we opted to take a picture instead. And have you observed the contrast between the stark dark sky against the pristine house? Amazing, right?!

Cafe Arabela, known for their pizza, pasta and steak is another restaurant that is quite famous in this vicinity. Despite its low ceiling, the guests will truly go out of the place with a smile and a feeling of contentedness. The crew are hospitable and amiable. The food appetizing and visually appealing!

Chicken galantina

Baked ziti

Lasagna

Chicken pizza

They were generous with the senior and PWD discount as we presented our IDs to them. Thank you! On the contrary, their prices were quite steep and is comparable to the food establishments here in the metro. Then again, we don't visit Liliw, Laguna everyday. Splurging once in every while to make myself and my parents happy is not a bad idea after all.

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