Thursday, April 29, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Getting to Mayon Volcano and Around It (Sto. Domingo, Bacacay, Malilipot, Tabaco, Ligao, Guinobatan, Camalig, and Daraga)
We woke up quite late - our second day in Albay. Had tapsilog breakfast at the hotel, and after morning bathroom rituals - its off we go to explore the towns beyond Legazpi City, and Mayon Volcano itself.
It was fortunate that the road leading towards north of Legazpi was Penaranda Road, and that's where we would come from. Penaranda Road eventually became the National Highway as we passed through the barangays of Rawis, Arimbay, and Salvacion. The view along the drive was very scenic, and actually gave us some insight as to the damage and havoc created by previous eruptions of the volcano. Along the road, we saw remnants of houses half submerged and burnt, big rocks and boulders almost occupying entire fields and rivers. We can only just imagine the strength of the eruption - how these huge stones were hurled from the volcano down to the towns. We saw the signage for the Mayon Riviera - a stretch of black-colored shoreline - however, we were met with a sign that says "private property", and we had no choice but to turn back to the main road.
We got to the town of Santo Domingo in just less than 10 minutes. The kilometer marker reads 541km. We went inside the poblacion to see the Sto. Domingo de Guzman Church. Across it was the town plaza, with the a monument dedicated to Andres Bonifacio, and the mausoleum of Potenciano Gregorio (the songwriter of "SarungBanggi"). Further down the town would lead to the port for Cagraray Island, home of Misibis Resort.
Next town was Bacacay, the town of islands, caves and beaches. Much as we had plans on what to see and do in this town - we got lost along the way, and just decided to drive on to the next town, Malilipot. We saw the road sign that led to Busay Falls, and again, much as we wanted to explore it, we had no place to leave the car with no one leaving to look after the car as well. We saw next the old town hall, where the road beside it led to the town church, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
Next came Tabaco City - it was a city alright - we were met with heavy traffic caused by election convoys and the city was indeed bustling alive with pedestrians and trikes. Along the national road was the eerily-white Tabaco City Hall, where across it is the San Juan Bautista Church.
Back on the national road, we made a right towards Mayon Volcano National Park. The road was well paved, and had occasional sharp turns, and we felt going up on slopes. As we reached Barangay Buang, there is a crossing with the Daragang Magayon Statue. We made a left towards the foot of Mayon Volcano. Vehicles and pedestrians became scarce already, and the breeze started to become colder - there was a slight drizzle - till we saw the "6 Kilometer Permanent Danger Zone" marker. The weather became similar to early morning Baguio City, cold and damp - and the fog started to grew thicker. The road started to make sharp twists and turns - zigzag. Finally we got to the first part - The Mayon Skyline. From here we were supposed to see a grand view of the province below and the Gulf of Albay - but with the fog - we saw nothing but mists and us shivering - we had no jackets with us. There was the never-opened never-functional now-derelict Mayon Resthouse. There was a small souveneir shop with several kids selling bonsai plants. We then proceeded further going up the mountain, the Holy Rosary Mountain Grotto along the side. As we got to the end of the road - there was the Mayon Planetarium - with a P10 entrance fee - but then - there was a power failure - the caretaker said we can just go in but I guess even with the powers on - there was nothing much to see except pcitures and posters of planets and other galactic what-have-you's.
There was also a small park that led down to the Mayon Resthouse. A pay comfort room for those with sensitive bladders is available, and a small canteen serving refreshments.
Beyond this part, further going up is restricted already. But I see several people whom the comfort room watcher says are formal residents of the mountain - they who always face the danger of Mayon's wrath.
We went down from the park, but we took the other way. Upon reaching the daragang magayon statue, instead of turning right to Tabaco, we made a left and headed for Ligao City. This route was considerably much longer gong back to Legazpi, but we had in mind our plans to visit Guinobatan, Camalig, and Daraga. The drive was very relaxing - something to really take off your mind away from work and other worries - from the cold weather up in the volcano - it was bright and sunny as we drove down.
As we approach Guinobatan, we chanced upon some small stalls that line the highway - we got curious to see what they were selling - macapuno rice puto. For P7 a piece, it made of two rice puto pieces put together like a hamburger bun, with macapuno in between. It tasted good while it was warm, but later that night, as we tried to munch on them - they weren't as good already.
We eventually reached Camalig, and got to see St. John the Baptist Church. Along the national highway was a crossing that led to the Hoyop-Hoyopan caves, but we reserved that visit for tomorrow. Camalig is said to be an old town rich with a few ancestral houses and other natural attractions.
Daraga was heralded with Cagsawa Ruins attraction. The road that led to it was rough and unpaved, and we were met with trucks hauling gravel and stones with what looked like a quarrying site filled with volcano projectiles.
The cagsawa ruins complex looked quite similar to Mines View Park of Baguio. Shops lined the entrance selling abaca products, and cutlery. The main entrance to the ruins ask for a P10 entrance fee. There it was - that very familiar scene - mostly seen in stamps, and textbooks and postcards - the half submerged bellfry with Mayon Volcano in the background. An eruption in 1814 sent pyroclastic material that buried the church and the people inside it. Within the park we were greeted by young male teens who offered to take our pictures and even suggested some photo tricks like making the bellfry look small and the volcano like a hill. They also acted as some sort of guides who told tales about the cagsawa tragedy.
The shopping area was also mixed with eateries that sold really cheap meals - but even if it was past noon already, we had our stomaches ready for a place in legazpi known for its bicol-fusion dishes, Small Talk Cafe.
It was fortunate that the road leading towards north of Legazpi was Penaranda Road, and that's where we would come from. Penaranda Road eventually became the National Highway as we passed through the barangays of Rawis, Arimbay, and Salvacion. The view along the drive was very scenic, and actually gave us some insight as to the damage and havoc created by previous eruptions of the volcano. Along the road, we saw remnants of houses half submerged and burnt, big rocks and boulders almost occupying entire fields and rivers. We can only just imagine the strength of the eruption - how these huge stones were hurled from the volcano down to the towns. We saw the signage for the Mayon Riviera - a stretch of black-colored shoreline - however, we were met with a sign that says "private property", and we had no choice but to turn back to the main road.
We got to the town of Santo Domingo in just less than 10 minutes. The kilometer marker reads 541km. We went inside the poblacion to see the Sto. Domingo de Guzman Church. Across it was the town plaza, with the a monument dedicated to Andres Bonifacio, and the mausoleum of Potenciano Gregorio (the songwriter of "SarungBanggi"). Further down the town would lead to the port for Cagraray Island, home of Misibis Resort.
Next town was Bacacay, the town of islands, caves and beaches. Much as we had plans on what to see and do in this town - we got lost along the way, and just decided to drive on to the next town, Malilipot. We saw the road sign that led to Busay Falls, and again, much as we wanted to explore it, we had no place to leave the car with no one leaving to look after the car as well. We saw next the old town hall, where the road beside it led to the town church, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
Next came Tabaco City - it was a city alright - we were met with heavy traffic caused by election convoys and the city was indeed bustling alive with pedestrians and trikes. Along the national road was the eerily-white Tabaco City Hall, where across it is the San Juan Bautista Church.
Back on the national road, we made a right towards Mayon Volcano National Park. The road was well paved, and had occasional sharp turns, and we felt going up on slopes. As we reached Barangay Buang, there is a crossing with the Daragang Magayon Statue. We made a left towards the foot of Mayon Volcano. Vehicles and pedestrians became scarce already, and the breeze started to become colder - there was a slight drizzle - till we saw the "6 Kilometer Permanent Danger Zone" marker. The weather became similar to early morning Baguio City, cold and damp - and the fog started to grew thicker. The road started to make sharp twists and turns - zigzag. Finally we got to the first part - The Mayon Skyline. From here we were supposed to see a grand view of the province below and the Gulf of Albay - but with the fog - we saw nothing but mists and us shivering - we had no jackets with us. There was the never-opened never-functional now-derelict Mayon Resthouse. There was a small souveneir shop with several kids selling bonsai plants. We then proceeded further going up the mountain, the Holy Rosary Mountain Grotto along the side. As we got to the end of the road - there was the Mayon Planetarium - with a P10 entrance fee - but then - there was a power failure - the caretaker said we can just go in but I guess even with the powers on - there was nothing much to see except pcitures and posters of planets and other galactic what-have-you's.
There was also a small park that led down to the Mayon Resthouse. A pay comfort room for those with sensitive bladders is available, and a small canteen serving refreshments.
Beyond this part, further going up is restricted already. But I see several people whom the comfort room watcher says are formal residents of the mountain - they who always face the danger of Mayon's wrath.
We went down from the park, but we took the other way. Upon reaching the daragang magayon statue, instead of turning right to Tabaco, we made a left and headed for Ligao City. This route was considerably much longer gong back to Legazpi, but we had in mind our plans to visit Guinobatan, Camalig, and Daraga. The drive was very relaxing - something to really take off your mind away from work and other worries - from the cold weather up in the volcano - it was bright and sunny as we drove down.
As we approach Guinobatan, we chanced upon some small stalls that line the highway - we got curious to see what they were selling - macapuno rice puto. For P7 a piece, it made of two rice puto pieces put together like a hamburger bun, with macapuno in between. It tasted good while it was warm, but later that night, as we tried to munch on them - they weren't as good already.
We eventually reached Camalig, and got to see St. John the Baptist Church. Along the national highway was a crossing that led to the Hoyop-Hoyopan caves, but we reserved that visit for tomorrow. Camalig is said to be an old town rich with a few ancestral houses and other natural attractions.
Daraga was heralded with Cagsawa Ruins attraction. The road that led to it was rough and unpaved, and we were met with trucks hauling gravel and stones with what looked like a quarrying site filled with volcano projectiles.
The cagsawa ruins complex looked quite similar to Mines View Park of Baguio. Shops lined the entrance selling abaca products, and cutlery. The main entrance to the ruins ask for a P10 entrance fee. There it was - that very familiar scene - mostly seen in stamps, and textbooks and postcards - the half submerged bellfry with Mayon Volcano in the background. An eruption in 1814 sent pyroclastic material that buried the church and the people inside it. Within the park we were greeted by young male teens who offered to take our pictures and even suggested some photo tricks like making the bellfry look small and the volcano like a hill. They also acted as some sort of guides who told tales about the cagsawa tragedy.
The shopping area was also mixed with eateries that sold really cheap meals - but even if it was past noon already, we had our stomaches ready for a place in legazpi known for its bicol-fusion dishes, Small Talk Cafe.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Legazpi Port District
After Lignon Hill, we drove towards the Port District to see what it has to offer. We cruised along the Daraga-Legazpi Diversion Road towards the National Highway, and found ourselves back on Penaranda Road where our hotel is. Almost a few minutes after, we saw the old and non-functioning Legazpi PNR Station. Hopefully with the goverment already working on the soon to be operational trains - this station would be bustling again the way it used to be in the past.
The Post District is the commercial part of the city - malls, public market, offices, restaurants, and public terminals - most of it were one-way streets - and it takes some time getting used to which streets to take.
We saw St. Raphael Church, where across it is a Rizal Park with a Rizal Monument. It was just pretty surprising to know that a lot of the towns and places that we saw along this trip - have a Rizal Park almost always all the time!
We got to a rotunda with the Trylon Monument in the center of it. Created in 1965, it is a 16-meter high heroes memorial that commemorates the Puente de San Rafael, where Bicolanos fought with the Americans in 1900.
Near the Trylon Monument is the Headless Monument, located just within the Legaspi Post Office. It was said to be dedicated to the unknown and unsung heroes who fought against the Japanese in the 1940s. The monument is quite unknown for itself - we hardly saw it - it was unkept and was practically almost obliterated with campaign posters.
We then drove towards the Port Area to see a new place in Legazpi, Embarcadero de Legazpi or the Sunwest Wharf. It was actually a mall, that housed several restaurants and clothes shops. Hardly a third of the mall was operational. They were pretty proud of a light tower, but when we got there, there were repairs ongoing so we weren't able to go up. Mount Mayon stood proudly in the background and I finally saw its tip though the rest of its body was covered in clouds.
Beyond was Kapuntukan Hill, or what is also called Sleeping Lion Hill. I had to stretch my imagination to believe that it looked like a sleeping lion.
We then left to see the Guadalupe Shrine. From the Port District, we had to go back to the Trylon Rotunda, and proceed to Rizal Street, where we made a left with the signage of the shrine. It was a grotto with winding steps along the side of the hill - along the way of which were the 14 stations of the cross. A huge image of the Blessed Mary is at the hilltop. Again there was no place to park again, altho at the back of the shrine is a street that leads to the chapel at the top. But the street is very very narrow, can only accomodate one small vehicle at a time. One lesson learned from the trip - the advantage and disadvantages of bringing your own vehicle versus commuting. It was quite easy going from place to place but it was hard for us whenever there was no safe parking to leave the car and no one is willing to stay behind and look after the car.
From the shrine we headed towards the Landco area - we saw the Legazpi Public Terminal, the currently being renovated Ibalong Center for Recreation and two malls, Metro Gaisano and Pacific Mall. Behind the malls, we stopped to have a taste of DJC Halo-Halo. The place was packed with a busload of Taiwanese tourists. Service was not that good, and when we finally got our servings of our halo halo - I thought the ones in Chowking are much better.
It was already almost 530pm and we decided to head back to the hotel. With the heat , time to shower again - and we lounged at the hotel lobby afterwards, talking with the hotel staff about the activities of the 2010 Magayon Festival. I was taken aback when they couldn't even give us an idea of the proceedings or much so, a brochure of the event. So I just went online to search for it, and there I was able to save the information. Tomorrow was going to be Camalig Day with a series of programs and activities.
We had a chit chat with the security guard and asked which place he would recommend for us to have dinner - bicol style. He told us to go to Hawak-Kamay. We just boarded a tricycle and told the driver of our destination - each of us paid P20. It was a small local restaurant with native huts for style. We had pinaputok na tilapia and bicol express, and I must say that the food was just great. It was not that expensive, and we stayed behind to have some beer.
Just the perfect way to end a long tiring day. For tomorrow, we are going to explore a few towns, plus Mayon Volcano itself.
The Post District is the commercial part of the city - malls, public market, offices, restaurants, and public terminals - most of it were one-way streets - and it takes some time getting used to which streets to take.
We saw St. Raphael Church, where across it is a Rizal Park with a Rizal Monument. It was just pretty surprising to know that a lot of the towns and places that we saw along this trip - have a Rizal Park almost always all the time!
We got to a rotunda with the Trylon Monument in the center of it. Created in 1965, it is a 16-meter high heroes memorial that commemorates the Puente de San Rafael, where Bicolanos fought with the Americans in 1900.
Near the Trylon Monument is the Headless Monument, located just within the Legaspi Post Office. It was said to be dedicated to the unknown and unsung heroes who fought against the Japanese in the 1940s. The monument is quite unknown for itself - we hardly saw it - it was unkept and was practically almost obliterated with campaign posters.
We then drove towards the Port Area to see a new place in Legazpi, Embarcadero de Legazpi or the Sunwest Wharf. It was actually a mall, that housed several restaurants and clothes shops. Hardly a third of the mall was operational. They were pretty proud of a light tower, but when we got there, there were repairs ongoing so we weren't able to go up. Mount Mayon stood proudly in the background and I finally saw its tip though the rest of its body was covered in clouds.
Beyond was Kapuntukan Hill, or what is also called Sleeping Lion Hill. I had to stretch my imagination to believe that it looked like a sleeping lion.
We then left to see the Guadalupe Shrine. From the Port District, we had to go back to the Trylon Rotunda, and proceed to Rizal Street, where we made a left with the signage of the shrine. It was a grotto with winding steps along the side of the hill - along the way of which were the 14 stations of the cross. A huge image of the Blessed Mary is at the hilltop. Again there was no place to park again, altho at the back of the shrine is a street that leads to the chapel at the top. But the street is very very narrow, can only accomodate one small vehicle at a time. One lesson learned from the trip - the advantage and disadvantages of bringing your own vehicle versus commuting. It was quite easy going from place to place but it was hard for us whenever there was no safe parking to leave the car and no one is willing to stay behind and look after the car.
From the shrine we headed towards the Landco area - we saw the Legazpi Public Terminal, the currently being renovated Ibalong Center for Recreation and two malls, Metro Gaisano and Pacific Mall. Behind the malls, we stopped to have a taste of DJC Halo-Halo. The place was packed with a busload of Taiwanese tourists. Service was not that good, and when we finally got our servings of our halo halo - I thought the ones in Chowking are much better.
It was already almost 530pm and we decided to head back to the hotel. With the heat , time to shower again - and we lounged at the hotel lobby afterwards, talking with the hotel staff about the activities of the 2010 Magayon Festival. I was taken aback when they couldn't even give us an idea of the proceedings or much so, a brochure of the event. So I just went online to search for it, and there I was able to save the information. Tomorrow was going to be Camalig Day with a series of programs and activities.
We had a chit chat with the security guard and asked which place he would recommend for us to have dinner - bicol style. He told us to go to Hawak-Kamay. We just boarded a tricycle and told the driver of our destination - each of us paid P20. It was a small local restaurant with native huts for style. We had pinaputok na tilapia and bicol express, and I must say that the food was just great. It was not that expensive, and we stayed behind to have some beer.
Just the perfect way to end a long tiring day. For tomorrow, we are going to explore a few towns, plus Mayon Volcano itself.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Lignon Hill
Lignon Hill (pronounced as li-nyon) is situated near the airport, and is a zigzag drive around it till you reach the top. It gives a nice view of Mayon Volcano, the Gulf of Albay, Legazpi City, and the domestic airport just below it.
The hill stands at 156 meters tall, and although some say it can be walked from the foot of the hill all the way up - I strongly not encourage it. With the heat, and the steep slopes - It can be really tiring. I drove the car all the way up, and along the way - you would notice several attractions, including their own stations fo the cross. Entrance is free, although cars are prohibited from 5-9am and 4-6pm.
In the evenings, it gives a nice sight of Legazpi City by night. The zigzag road is well lit and the hill is very conspicuous from the city because of the lighted zigzag.
For the more athletic and adventurous, the hill offers a trail where you may wanna climb up using bamboo stairs along the slopes, instead of taking the road.
There is also a Japanese Tunnel located near the foot of the hill. A park marshall will guide through the U-shaped tunnel.
A Philvolcs Office is also situated from the foot of the hill. It was rocky drive up to it, and the personnel there continuously monitors the activity of Mount Mayon. A high powered telescope can be used to see magnified views of the volcano from this place.
At the peak of the hill is the view deck. Gives a magnificent view of Mount Mayon. Too bad the volcano was then covered with clouds. There is a place where you can have refreshments and buy souveneirs.
A zipline (more or less about 300 meters) is also available at the hill top. They also offer professional phototaking with you on the zipline with Mayon in the background.
It was already about 430pm and we decided to go down already, and try to see some other places the city has to offer.
At the foot of the hill, near the entance from the main road, is the Albay Park and Wildlife, which we didnt bother anymore to stop. There was no parking available.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY
Finally after 9 hours, we reached our destination and home for the coming 3 nights. From Daraga, we entered the city via Lakandula Drive, that immediately led us to Legazpi Airport area. The EZ Map of Legazpi City came very handy as it guided us very well on how to orient ourselves within the city.
The city was divided into two portions : Albay District (which mostly covered the adminstrative establishments - the provincial capitol, city hall, the cathedral ) and Legazpi Port District ( the tourist hub - malls, public market, hotels, restaurants and the city port).
We headed for Casablanca Hotel, located along Penaranda Avenue in the Port District. It was quite easy to navigate around the city, as people around the streets were very friendly giving as directions as well.
But our stomachs were churning from the long drive - and besides it noon time already. Its time to have a first taste of Bicol food.
And luckily, the first food place I had in mind (from what I've read from other blogs) - Waway's - was along the same street as our hotel. We found the hotel easily and decided first to eat before checking in.
Waway's was a restaurant that sold typical bicolano dishes - laing, bicol express, pinangat, etc. Inside, it was spacious and waitresses eagerly approached us to ask for our orders after we chose our table. The dishes were all displayed in metal pans, so it was a delight being able to see what we are about to order.
We settled for Pinangat (taro leaves in coconut milk), Kinunot (malunggay in coconut milk), and Adobado (chicken with ginger and coconut milk). It was the start of our love affair with the coconut milk, or gata. The food wasn't that spectacular, and the heat from the spice was tolerable - but for hungry men - they sure tasted enough to fill us up. The food was reasonably priced, and we immediately felt the tiredness from the trip right after.
We then headed for the hotel to be checked in - Casablanca Hotel. The rooms that we got were standard twin rooms - each room with two single beds. Each room priced at P1,700. But prior to leaving Manila, I already made reservations and deposited half of the total amount of our bill in their bank account, and faxing them a copy of the deposit slip. It was the 2010 Magayon Festival, and I feared that we may have some difficulty if we just walked in. I was previously informed that they have no elevators - and our rooms would be on the 3rd floor.
The rooms were pretty decent - enough to have a good sleep for the nights to come. Working air-condition, check. Working television w cable, check. Bathroom w shower and hot water, check. Ample and safe parking, check. Then thats all we need. Well, the tv had no remote control, so we were quite stuck watching just one channel.
We unpacked, took showers, freshened up, and did a bit of a power nap. But my adrenaline was still way up - and I just couldn't resist wasting the afternoon - so after having enough rest, we then hopped on back to the car and do some city touring.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Finally, ALBAY ! From Libon to Legaspi City
Soon after Bato, Camarines Sur, we entered the jurisdiction of the province of Albay. We were all excited to see even the tiniest glimpse of Mount Mayon - but as we passed through Libon, Polangui and Oas, the elevated structure that we could see on the left was that of Mount Masaraga.
Soon as we got to Libon, beyond the horizon, there we started to see images of a mountain with perfectly carved slopes - Mount Mayon. The further I drove down, the clearer it became. There it is - majestic Mount Mayon. It wasn't like the one we often see in postcards - part of the volcano was obstructed with clouds. But despite the clouds - its easy to imagine why they call it the perfect cone -
Guinobatan was next . This was the town ravished by Typhoon Reming in 2006. Mudslides from Mayon Volcano damaged structures and killed hundreds of people.
6km from Guinobatan came the town of Camalig, known for the Hoyop-Hoyopan caves. Next was Daraga, site of the Cagsaua Ruins.
Then finally, Legazpi City, 11:15am.
Odometer Check : 10,150km
I have driven 463 km from Alabang, in roughly nine hours, with two quick stops in between.
My legs need a good stretch as we drove around the city looking for our hotel.
Soon as we got to Libon, beyond the horizon, there we started to see images of a mountain with perfectly carved slopes - Mount Mayon. The further I drove down, the clearer it became. There it is - majestic Mount Mayon. It wasn't like the one we often see in postcards - part of the volcano was obstructed with clouds. But despite the clouds - its easy to imagine why they call it the perfect cone -
Guinobatan was next . This was the town ravished by Typhoon Reming in 2006. Mudslides from Mayon Volcano damaged structures and killed hundreds of people.
6km from Guinobatan came the town of Camalig, known for the Hoyop-Hoyopan caves. Next was Daraga, site of the Cagsaua Ruins.
Then finally, Legazpi City, 11:15am.
Odometer Check : 10,150km
I have driven 463 km from Alabang, in roughly nine hours, with two quick stops in between.
My legs need a good stretch as we drove around the city looking for our hotel.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Camarines Sur - Naga to Bato
From Sipocot, we noticed a signage on the right side that leads to Kulapnitan Caves. Traffic here already became a bit heavier - tricycles and jeeps were everywhere. Buses as well. We passed through the towns of Pamplona, San Fernando, and Milaor, before reaching Naga City. Finally.
We stopped to refuel here - only our second stop since we left Alabang. The first stop was somewhere along Andaya Highway to empty our over-stretched bladders.
It was already 930 am. And my odometer had exceeded the 10,000 km already.
The streets were lined with tons and tons of election paraphernalia. Tarpaulins left and right. What a messy sight.
We noticed two banners that read weird.
One says VOTE MALAKI. While the other says VOTE MASARAP. How could partylists come up with such names?
But then we came to realize that both were actually advertisements - of a well-known 50's style diner scattered all around the Bicol Area - BIGG'S.
From Naga City - next was the provincial capital Pili. Known foremost for the site of the Cam Sur Watersports Complex (CWC). Along the way, Mount Isarog provided us confusion as we thought it was already Mount Mayon.
Then came the towns of Baao, Nabua (which leads to Nora-land Iriga City), and Bato. From Baao - we already got a view of Mount Iriga.
In Bato, they sell a delicacy Pancit Bato, which was said to be best eaten with dinuguan. We never got to taste it but we bought several packs of uncooked Pancit Bato for home. A Pack is made of 5 smaller packs - all of it for P140. Each small pack is said to be enough to feed 10 people.
After the town of Bato - we were now in the province of Albay.
Odometer check : 10,130km (total of 443km driven)
We stopped to refuel here - only our second stop since we left Alabang. The first stop was somewhere along Andaya Highway to empty our over-stretched bladders.
It was already 930 am. And my odometer had exceeded the 10,000 km already.
The streets were lined with tons and tons of election paraphernalia. Tarpaulins left and right. What a messy sight.
We noticed two banners that read weird.
One says VOTE MALAKI. While the other says VOTE MASARAP. How could partylists come up with such names?
But then we came to realize that both were actually advertisements - of a well-known 50's style diner scattered all around the Bicol Area - BIGG'S.
From Naga City - next was the provincial capital Pili. Known foremost for the site of the Cam Sur Watersports Complex (CWC). Along the way, Mount Isarog provided us confusion as we thought it was already Mount Mayon.
Then came the towns of Baao, Nabua (which leads to Nora-land Iriga City), and Bato. From Baao - we already got a view of Mount Iriga.
In Bato, they sell a delicacy Pancit Bato, which was said to be best eaten with dinuguan. We never got to taste it but we bought several packs of uncooked Pancit Bato for home. A Pack is made of 5 smaller packs - all of it for P140. Each small pack is said to be enough to feed 10 people.
After the town of Bato - we were now in the province of Albay.
Odometer check : 10,130km (total of 443km driven)
Lopez, Quezon to Sipocot, Camarines Sur (via Andaya Highway)
After Gumaca, next were the towns of Lopez and Calauag. This is a very long drive - nothing much to see along the road except the countryside and occasional eateries. The sun is way up, and the heat is starting to scorch everything along the way.
This is the time to crack jokes with everyone in the car - and time to catch up on what's new with everyone else, and reminisce the old times.
Then suddenly right at our face - this welcome arch that says : CAMARINES NORTE - WELCOME TO BICOLANDIA .
Finally - after almost 5 hrs of driving - we were already in Region V : Bicol Region.
From here, odometer reading is at 9952km.
The first town of Camarines Norte is Santa Elena - but before we got to appreciate what it is to see here, we reach the junction that forks into two : going straight heads for Daet, Camarines Norte while taking the right side leads to Andaya Highway (formerly Quirino Highway).
Andaya Highway bypasses Camarines Norte to get to Camarines Sur, Albay, and Sorsogon. Years back, this highway was in very bad condition - most vehicles avoid it like the plague. They claim that after passing through it would add 5 years to your car's age.
Luckily, it has been rehabilitated for the most part of it.
Andaya Highway turns again to Quezon Province, passing through Tagkawayan.
This part has well cemented roads - very much complementing the nice scenery.
Then, again, right at our face, we got to see the WELCOME ARCH OF CAMARINES SUR. We were all excited as we are now somehow getting near our destination.
The stretch of Andaya Highway that encompasses the first two towns of CamSur (Del Gallego and Ragay) are not in good condition. Interspersed between well paved roads are bumpy rough ones - its advisable that driving with care is practiced here.
We got to see a Shell Gas Station in Ragay, just beside the Andaya Park. This was the first gas station we saw for several kilometers, so it would be wise to have enough fuel before entering Andaya Highway.
After Ragay is the town of Lupi. From hereon, the bumpy roads become well paved asphalted roads - and its like driving non-stop in a straight direction with hardly any turns. And this portion is like driving up and down on crests and troughs of a wave. Very nice drive.
Next is Sipocot. This is the end of Andaya Highway - total length is roughly 100km long. It took me about an hour and a half traversing this diversion. We then turned right towards Naga. Upon reaching Sipocot, there are gas stations left and right.
This is the time to crack jokes with everyone in the car - and time to catch up on what's new with everyone else, and reminisce the old times.
Then suddenly right at our face - this welcome arch that says : CAMARINES NORTE - WELCOME TO BICOLANDIA .
Finally - after almost 5 hrs of driving - we were already in Region V : Bicol Region.
From here, odometer reading is at 9952km.
The first town of Camarines Norte is Santa Elena - but before we got to appreciate what it is to see here, we reach the junction that forks into two : going straight heads for Daet, Camarines Norte while taking the right side leads to Andaya Highway (formerly Quirino Highway).
Andaya Highway bypasses Camarines Norte to get to Camarines Sur, Albay, and Sorsogon. Years back, this highway was in very bad condition - most vehicles avoid it like the plague. They claim that after passing through it would add 5 years to your car's age.
Luckily, it has been rehabilitated for the most part of it.
Andaya Highway turns again to Quezon Province, passing through Tagkawayan.
This part has well cemented roads - very much complementing the nice scenery.
Then, again, right at our face, we got to see the WELCOME ARCH OF CAMARINES SUR. We were all excited as we are now somehow getting near our destination.
The stretch of Andaya Highway that encompasses the first two towns of CamSur (Del Gallego and Ragay) are not in good condition. Interspersed between well paved roads are bumpy rough ones - its advisable that driving with care is practiced here.
We got to see a Shell Gas Station in Ragay, just beside the Andaya Park. This was the first gas station we saw for several kilometers, so it would be wise to have enough fuel before entering Andaya Highway.
After Ragay is the town of Lupi. From hereon, the bumpy roads become well paved asphalted roads - and its like driving non-stop in a straight direction with hardly any turns. And this portion is like driving up and down on crests and troughs of a wave. Very nice drive.
Next is Sipocot. This is the end of Andaya Highway - total length is roughly 100km long. It took me about an hour and a half traversing this diversion. We then turned right towards Naga. Upon reaching Sipocot, there are gas stations left and right.
Candelaria to Gumaca, Quezon
It was already 5am as we drove past the towns of Candelaria, Sariaya, Lucena, and Pagbilao. It would have been great to see these towns, and the old houses that line the streets. But I was informed that the traffic within these towns can get bad at times so I was in a bit of hurry not to get caught with the onslaught of people and vehicles as the these towns start to wake up from their night slumber.
The sun was already starting to peek when I got to the junction that leads to the Quezon National Park. From here - its either I turn left towards the longer and rougher roads or I go right and enter the park. I sort of have been dreaming about this place - I was anxious - I have read so much about the twists and turns of the zigzags within the park. Locals call the place EME, because the zigzags apparently look like the letter 'M'. As I drove through the park, it was like passing through Kennon Road in Benguet. The turns were manageable, but I went slow, just to be sure that I wont be caught with surprise. The place was nice - lush greens - ferns so big they look almost like trees. In the middle of the trek was the entrance to the park. I wanted to stop and take pictures but I decided to go on. There were people along the way who waved flags to guide vehicles to give each other rights of way, giving preference to those going up the zigzag. Giving them loose change is just one way to show appreciation of their help - I think they are just volunteers. Overall - the drive through the park was a breeze - not as bad as what I had expected. Except for the last part - it was a very steep drive down (I think its almost a 45 degrees slope) . Now I'm having second thoughts about passing through here on the way back to Manila.
The entire drive through the park took only all of 4 minutes! I was pretty surprised with that. The park is said to encompass the towns of Atimonan, Padre Burgos, and Plaridel.
As I reached Plaridel, the sun was already shining - and the view is just magnificent. It was already around 615am, and the coastal towns of Plaridel and Gumaca just gives you a glimpse of the shoreline overlooking Lamon Bay. Picture perfect! But again - I didnt bother to stop anymore - I don't know but I was preoccupied with the idea that I wanted to reach Legazpi City before sunset. But there is a stop-over area along these towns - just across the Bay. Restaurants and Carinderias line the place - lots of buses and vehicles stopping over for the mandatory stretch and the short trip to unload body fluids.
Around this time - the car radio won't be of use anymore. Local radio channels already lord it over the airwaves - time to put on cds. In my case - I had to plug my iPod and play tunes starting from Everything But The Girl and the rest of the 80's.
The odometer now reads 9,865km.
I've driven 169 km in more or less two hours.
Still a long way to go.
The sun was already starting to peek when I got to the junction that leads to the Quezon National Park. From here - its either I turn left towards the longer and rougher roads or I go right and enter the park. I sort of have been dreaming about this place - I was anxious - I have read so much about the twists and turns of the zigzags within the park. Locals call the place EME, because the zigzags apparently look like the letter 'M'. As I drove through the park, it was like passing through Kennon Road in Benguet. The turns were manageable, but I went slow, just to be sure that I wont be caught with surprise. The place was nice - lush greens - ferns so big they look almost like trees. In the middle of the trek was the entrance to the park. I wanted to stop and take pictures but I decided to go on. There were people along the way who waved flags to guide vehicles to give each other rights of way, giving preference to those going up the zigzag. Giving them loose change is just one way to show appreciation of their help - I think they are just volunteers. Overall - the drive through the park was a breeze - not as bad as what I had expected. Except for the last part - it was a very steep drive down (I think its almost a 45 degrees slope) . Now I'm having second thoughts about passing through here on the way back to Manila.
The entire drive through the park took only all of 4 minutes! I was pretty surprised with that. The park is said to encompass the towns of Atimonan, Padre Burgos, and Plaridel.
As I reached Plaridel, the sun was already shining - and the view is just magnificent. It was already around 615am, and the coastal towns of Plaridel and Gumaca just gives you a glimpse of the shoreline overlooking Lamon Bay. Picture perfect! But again - I didnt bother to stop anymore - I don't know but I was preoccupied with the idea that I wanted to reach Legazpi City before sunset. But there is a stop-over area along these towns - just across the Bay. Restaurants and Carinderias line the place - lots of buses and vehicles stopping over for the mandatory stretch and the short trip to unload body fluids.
Around this time - the car radio won't be of use anymore. Local radio channels already lord it over the airwaves - time to put on cds. In my case - I had to plug my iPod and play tunes starting from Everything But The Girl and the rest of the 80's.
The odometer now reads 9,865km.
I've driven 169 km in more or less two hours.
Still a long way to go.
Alabang, Muntinlupa to Tiaong, Quezon
I started my Albay Trip on an early Tuesday morning. We left at exactly 3 am from Alabang, Muntinlupa, only stopping by a local 711 store to buy a bag of ice cubes (P35) for the ice chest we brought to keep us hydrated with cold drinks for the rest of the way.
Expecting a really long drive - I armed my Strada with a full tank of diesel fuel. A few days prior, I even had it checked in at the local Mitsubishi Service Center, just to be sure that everything is in proper order although my pick-up is just over a year old.
I noted my odometer reading at 9,696km. Legazpi City in Albay is about 550 km away.
The drive along SLEX was pretty alright - ten-wheeler trucks were just a few - but what bothered me was a slight drizzle somewhere along Sta. Rosa area which made me slow down a bit. The drizzle continued to get stronger as we reached Batangas Exit, but still manageable. By the time I was in Alaminos/San Pablo (roughly around 420am), it was already raining hard - my wiper is working overtime to keep my windshield view clearer. I felt bad for I thought it was gonna be raining all the way - but then by the time I got to Tiaong, Quezon, the rains had stopped already and the drive went smoothly from there on.
Expecting a really long drive - I armed my Strada with a full tank of diesel fuel. A few days prior, I even had it checked in at the local Mitsubishi Service Center, just to be sure that everything is in proper order although my pick-up is just over a year old.
I noted my odometer reading at 9,696km. Legazpi City in Albay is about 550 km away.
The drive along SLEX was pretty alright - ten-wheeler trucks were just a few - but what bothered me was a slight drizzle somewhere along Sta. Rosa area which made me slow down a bit. The drizzle continued to get stronger as we reached Batangas Exit, but still manageable. By the time I was in Alaminos/San Pablo (roughly around 420am), it was already raining hard - my wiper is working overtime to keep my windshield view clearer. I felt bad for I thought it was gonna be raining all the way - but then by the time I got to Tiaong, Quezon, the rains had stopped already and the drive went smoothly from there on.
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