Daraga, Albay | Tourist Spots and Things to Do in Town

Maximize your time in Daraga, Albay. The bustling town is more than just the Cagsawa Ruins. I have made this simple travel guide to give all types of travelers an idea what to do in the town of Daraga.

So whether you are a solo backpacker, glamorized backpacker, traveling in group, budget-packer, spend-all-you-can-packer, BFF-packers, family packers or simply just a mother packer, you can absolutely do this given that there is no typhoon, volcanic eruption and flood happening the day of your visit.

So you want a town-specific tour for Daraga in Albay and you have this style for slow travel covering 1 town at a time? Here are suggested things to do in town without the need to wear a red bikini. It is very D-I-Y and it won’t cause you an overnight stay to a lodging house or a 5-star hotel. Get ready to rumble #TownExplorers!

Start Your Day at Cagsawa Ruins

Yes, you gotta start your Town Tour Itinerary at the Cagsawa Ruins. If you would ask the locals, they would tell you to go here at morning. The reason? To see the Mayon Volcano without thick clouds covering it. 

Ok, that is the theory of these #TownFolks and I bet there are no political and scientific conspiracies over those theories. The volcano’s showgirl side peaks at the morning. Ready for the show?

Explore the Ruins

Don’t just get satisfied of photographing Bicol’s most famous man-made landmark seen in HEKASI Books back then in Elementary and High School. Go and explore the ruins! Examine the ruins. Go around the ruins. If you were able to do that, you’ll be smart enough to recognize how volcanic stones look like.

This is your chance to touch and feel the famous Cagsawa Ruins and you’ll come to realize that there are some more things to know not discussed by your school teacher only if you will observe keenly and examine the ruins with curiosity.

See what’s inside the ruined belfry

Another suggestion is to go inside the belfry if you are lucky enough. I said if you are lucky enough because I wasn’t lucky enough to go inside. However I was able to take a snap shot. There are wooden fences. The reason I can see to this is to ensure the safety of the tourists. There could still be debris you know.

But of course, have you ever wondered what to see inside the belfry? ‘Cause you know, we always see the exterior in books but not what inside the belfry right? This is your chance to prove that there is no dragon inside the belfry.

I was really curious, and now, I was able to see that inside the belfry are volcanic stones stuck together. It is massive you know. The holes inside (that used to be the windows of the belfry) were great source of light inside. But during the night, they become non-useful, of course.

Shop for souvenir (optional)

This option is highly recommended for shoppaholics but  not for shoplifters.

Inside the Cagsawa Ruins premises are plenty of local products to choose from. But one inviting commodity that I don’t suggest shoppers to buy is the Wild Orchid from Mayon. I am afraid these orchids will run out due to high demand.

Just buy other orchids but not this beautiful wild orchids growing at the slopes of Mayon Volcano.

Travel Back in time at Balay Suanoy

Check out the Balay Suanoy Ancestral Home. It is a restaurant-museum. It is a very elegant house that contains a lot of vintage stuff. It feels like you are not in Albay because of the Intramuros-ish and Vigan-ish ambiance.

Located across the street is the Gazebo, it is recommended for group travelers who want to experience dining in this high-end restaurant.

Food Trip: Recommended Foods to Eat at Balay Suanoy

Yes I know, you are in Bicol and you have to try the Bicol express food. But I just want to make a detour to the Pacific Ocean because the Crispy Pata and Apple + Banana crepes in Balay Suanoy are must-try foods.

I am confident enough to say that it won’t disappoint 🙂

Visit the Daraga Church

Daraga Church is a National Historical Treasure painted with white which actually contains chemicals to preserve the deteriorating facade.

You need to climb the hill where this church is located. If you don’t have an idea how this church looks like before it was painted with white, check out the belfry and you’ll know how old it looks.

Get inside the Daraga Church

Don’t get satisfied just seeing the facade, get inside and check out what to see.

Inside the church was empty when I went here. The facade looks older than what is seen inside based on how I see it.

Dine (again) with the Mayon View

End you Daraga town tour with another food trip at JZOR Restaurant. North of the Daraga Church is a simple, non-touristy yet must-try restaurant because of the experience it brings you dining on an azotea-like setting while viewing the Mayon volcano.

It gives you an outdoor-dining experience because of the vastness of the plains you see below that gradually meet together at the top in unison that is the peak of the almost-perfect cone Mayon Volcano.

I hope this one helps. Go! Explore the town of Daraga!

Do you want to explore more the town of Daraga? Hint: Click the map. Happy #TownExploring!

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Tagudin, Ilocos Sur | Tourist Spots and Interesting Places to See

“So you want to explore the town of Tagudin and you don’t have any idea what this town has to offer? Let me help you based on my experience.” 

Tagudin is actually an interesting town that can give you history lessons and interesting trivia. It is the first town in Ilocos when you are coming from Manila via land travel or if in case you want to make alay lakad to death, why not? It is still the first town from the south :p

So now, I have found interesting tourist spots you need to see, or if you are not a tourist, or if you don’t want to be called that way, there are “interesting places” you might want to see. Of course, I will give you some important details and reminders and it will be up to you if you want to see the place. So here we go!

Bio View Deck

Let’s start with the Bio View deck. Uh, please don’t get confused if it is Bio deck or view deck because it is actually Bio view deck, makes sense?

The view deck is located in Brgy. Bio which is the southernmost barangay in Tagudin, also the first barangay you have to take in Ilocandia when you are traveling by land from the south. The viewing deck is located at the top of a hill.

What to do here:

Enjoy the view: So what to do here? Just stand the whole day! Lols. Kidding aside, it is a view deck and it will allow you to view the boundary of La Union and Ilocos Sur provinces, the beautiful Amburayan River and the Amburayan Bridge. If you love viewing a view (equation: view x view = view2, lols), then the Bio View deck is the place for you.

Picnicking: There is also picnic area at the view deck. Enjoy the fresh air and the countryside ambiance of two provinces in one vantage point which is the Bio view deck made for viewing a view in your own point of view :p

*Censored* There is another one, and usually couples do it at night according to my source, but I won’t tell it because this is not a night life guide, this is a tourist spots guide :p Any idea? lols. Anyway forget about that, this post did not undergo proofreading :p

How to go here: Just after you cross the Amburayan Bridge which comes before the Ilocos Sur welcome arch if you are from the south, look at your right side, you will see this view deck. Just take the stair then climb. Coming from the north, look at your left, it is located before the bridge.

Amburayan River and Amburayan Bridge

A walk away from the Bio view deck is the Amburayan River. It originates from Benguet then terminates in Tagudin. The bridge spanning across the river is called the Amburayan Bridge which connects the two provinces of La Union and Ilocos Sur.

What to do here: 

River fishing: Do what the locals do. If you are well-versed with river fishing, it could be a cool leisure activity without doing a break dance.

Picnicking: You can also have a picnic at the riverbank. You can fish at the river for your meal. If you don’t know how to fish probably because you are suffering from a carpal tunnel syndrome then just bring your own food. There are no picnic tables, it’s a cow thing, I mean be a cowboy, or a cowgirl (I don’t know if they allow cowgays here).

Swimming: If you are into swimming, then why not! Locals also go here to swim, simply to release heat and be refreshed.

Photo walk: If you are not into photo swimming, blah… you can still do a photo walk here. The place is photographer friendly.

*Semi-censored* Swim nude! Urgh… Swim like you are in a nude beach, but be sure your body from the waist down should be submerged into the water :p Oh no! Please don’t follow this advice, this suggestions isn’t approved by the BIR.

Warning: The water gets harsh at times, so be sure there is no typhoon or unlimited monsoon rains via chem-trail if you plan to go here. Also, there are no facilities or resorts near here to hire a bikini or fishing material and cooking materials so bring your own. I told you this is a cow thing. Better, bring an already cooked food if you’re not cow-ish.

How to go here: The Amburayan Bridge, which is the first bridge you will be taking before entering Ilocos, should be the landmark you have to take note if you are coming from the south. It comes before the Ilocos Sur welcome arch! Just go below the bridge by following the trails.

Tagudin Sundials

Tagudin Sundials are Spanish-era structures. The two sundials of Tagudin are the oldest sundials in the Philippines and the only sundial used during the Spanish regime.

What to do here:

Tell the time using the sundial: The sundials are still working, so don’t miss the chance to know what time is it by interpreting the shadows at the sundial. That would be your challenge.

Don’t touch the structure: Don’t you ever dare touch the structure. This is a part of our heritage and it needs to be preserved. Touching will lead to vandalism. So, prevention is better than cure. If no one will touch it, there would be no vandalism. So be a responsible individual, traveler or tourist.

How to go here: There are two sundials in town, the one is located in front of the municipal hall and the other is inside the St. Augustine’s School just beside the Tagudin Church. Don’t forget to ask for directions from the locals, this is mainly DIY. More tips and learn more about this sundial by clicking here and not there.

Tagudin Church and Belfry

Tagudin Church is a must-see in Tagudin. It has a Baroque architecture and was completed by Fr. Juan Sorolla in 1832. It also has a belfry situated east of the church which was built with distance from the church as  caution for earthquakes. Learn more about this church by clicking here:

How to go here: The church is located at the heart of the town so it is very visible and accessible  once you know how to go to Tagudin which I have discussed below, going to this church will be as easy as ABC. Or you could just ask the locals anytime about the direction. It is very D-I-Y.

Farola Lighthouse

Farola Lighthouse is one historical landmark in Tagudin. It builds an Ilocos-Belgium connection (click here to learn more) and it is about 100 years old.

For the things to do and the history, click here.

How to go here: From the Tagudin town hall, get a tricycle and ask the driver to drive you to the Farola Lighthouse in Brgy Farola. Fare costs about 30-50 pesos. Traveling in group would be much cheaper via the benefit of sharing for the fare. If you have your own vehicle, Farola is located midway the Poblacion and Bitalag. You can ask for the locals for the direction along your way.

Farola Beach

So you want a silent beach in Tagudin? There are several beaches but it is only the Farola beach that I was able to see. It is located near the Farola lighthouse. This beach is the landing site of Belgian missionaries.

The beach has pebble and dark sand shorelines. Learn more here:

How to go here: Same with Farola Lighthouse, please refer above.

Ambalayat Hanging Bridge

Go for adventure and off-road travel in Tagudin, then Ambalayat hanging Bridge is the place for you. It is actually a footbridge but they are used of calling it as a hanging bridge. It is located in Brgy Ambalayat, the last barangay in the town at the east separated by the Amburayan River, thus, the foot bridge.

How to go, what to do here? Check it out here.

How to go to Tagudin?

Click the map to see all posts about Tagudin.

From Vigan Bus Terminal, get a south bound bus (Vigan-San Fernando, Vigan-Carmen). The fare is 100 pesos as of July 2012. You can also ride on a Vigan-Tagudin PUV located north of the Ilocos Sur Capitol in Vigan.

From San Fernando City, La Union, get a north bound bus or PUV. Drop at the Yellow Market, that would be your starting point in exploring the town. Yellow market is located along the national highway in Tagudin.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

LARGA FESTIVAL | A Vegetable Fiesta in Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur

“How I wish that after 50 years, this festival will still continue and evolve to be one of the grandest in the country, and after 50 years, this blog entry will still remain.”

A very small town west of the city of Vigan in the province of Ilocos Sur, it is very interesting to know that in spite of the small size of the town, it has managed to evolve as an important portion of the economy of the province. Dubbed as the vegetable bowl of the north, the little town of only 9.68 sq. km. in area is blessed with limited fertile farmlands. For the town, size doesn’t matter.

Larga Festival | An Overview

Sun-Kissed Farmer’s Hat

The little town of Sta. Catalina is an agricultural town. But unlike many other agricultural towns, it does not mainly host rice fields. Interestingly, the agricultural lands of Sta. Catalina are planted with cabbages, onions, cauliflowers, and others. The crops I mentioned are just the major produces of the town.

This is the first ever Larga Festival in town with the goal to promote the industries and local products of the municipality especially their vegetable products. However, there are also rice fields and corn fields. So just imagine how diverse the crops grown in this little town.

Fiesta Crowd

This is so far, the first Larga Festival in the town and I am blessed to have witnessed this celebration dedicated to the vegetable farmers in town.

Yes, the farmers deserve a break and recognition since they serve as the foundation of almost every rural town’s economy.

Fiesta scenes in town

Crowd in front of the town hall

Local Products in one stop

Town Plaza crowd

Purple Cabbage, a must-try in Sta. Catalina

It is very uplifting to know that you don’t need to be big to dominate. For Sta. Catalina, they own the vegetable trade and market in the province. Their farm products are also sold to other provinces and even to Manila.

It is my first time to see the town so lively and happy. The people were there, anticipating that great things are happening in their small town. I can witness their excitement and fascination. 

One must-try product in Sta. Catalina is the purple cabbage. It is not main stream and yet, the town has been producing it for several years. They say you can eat this raw like lettuce. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to try it.

Street Dancing

Fiesta Banners

Preparing for the street dancing

And yeah! There was a street dancing. It was the highlight of the celebration. The dancers were little kids from the 7 elementary schools in the municipality.

It was not as grand as the other popular festivals in the Philippines but for a simple quiet town like Sta. Catalina, this must be something worth watching and cherishing for.

I don’t know why this event feels like so special to me. I don’t live here although some of good friends of mine are from here. Maybe because I have a deep respect to farmers because the way they raise their families as farmers are just greater than anyone else on my point of view.

Now the kids, on which I am sure some of them are children of farmers are dancing on the streets promoting their products with good pride and greatness. That’s the essence of this festival! Yes, I might have discovered why it feels so special to me.

It was a pure celebration. The farmers’ kids themselves danced gracefully with pride in their gestures. Unlike any other festivals that become so commercialized leading to real competitions (although I am not against with the concept), Larga Festival was more of a passion. The children for sure can’t help but to perceive that the town’s farmers (their parents, and including them) are real heroes. Without their parents, this festival is meaningless. Indeed, the festival was full of meaning. This is their day!

Caroza in motion

Little vegetable vendors, a simulation

With emphasis on the green necklace made from Sili

Shy little girl

Baskets of vegetables

Kids on street party!

A necklace made from fresh sili

And the real celebration began as the street dancers put on their feet to the streets with colorful costumes and props.

There was only 1 background music used and it played so loud so that the whole poblacion and the people watching along the main street can hear. Imagine how loud should that be and I was just near to one of the speakers.

They wear Abel Iloko, a locally woven fabric.

Head carry

Yellow

In motion

Eyes closed

Being in sync

Being at the back

Contingent#5

Graceful!

So Colorful!

Big smile!

Big moves

Partners

Cute little boys in green

Cute little boys in red

Waisted

Bending to the left

Trio

Click the Map to explore more of Sta. Catalina.

How I wish that after 50 years, this festival will still continue and evolve to be one of the grandest in the country, and after 50 years, this blog entry will still remain.

For that, I will be more than glad to say that I was a part of history and will still be and tell the younger generation (if I am still alive that time) that “Hey look at my blog! I was able to document the first ever Larga Festival in your town!”

Please pardon the low-quality photos, but I hope you were able to get the message I wanted to bring out that even the most expensive camera can not deliver.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Farola Beach of Tagudin, 2 Types of Beach in One Place

“So it was possible to experience a pebble beach and a black sandy beach in one place. This is my observation in Farola Beach.”

The place was not a big surprise, although it is one of the most memorable places I have been because it is where I saw a lighthouse for the very first time. What is interesting in this beach is that the shoreline is divided into two types of beach.

Farola Beach in Tagudin

It has two types of beach in one place. The shore nearer to the sea is lined with pebbles, thus a pebble beach, while about 100 meters away from the sea is a black sandy beach.

Well, it is just an observation and it was the way I saw it. 

Pebble Beach

Black Sandy Part of Farola Beach

So it was possible to experience a pebble beach and a black sandy beach in one place. This is my observation in Farola Beach. 

This beach is mainly known in the town because of the historical Farola Lighthouse and it’s historical importance as landing site of missionaries from Belgium who came Christianize the country.

Raft at the Beach

Fishermen of Brgy. Farola

Although the beach is not as popular as any other beaches, it’s importance in the community is as big as other beaches for the reason that many people in this coastal barangay earn a living from this beach.

So there’s no way to underestimate any beach I am seeing. A beach does not need to be as powdery white as Boracay to consider it important. In the long run all beaches were made by God in different forms as a blessing to the people.

Map of Tagudin

I am not against if businessmen will establish their resorts here. But if I were to be asked, I would rather keep the beach as it is and leave the fishermen undisturbed if business establishments will be the reason of the modification of the natural beauty of the beach for personal profits.

How to get here? 

Just get a tricycle near the municipal hall and just tell the driver to drive you to Farola Beach. Fare is around 30-40 pesos if you are alone. Please negotiate for the fare first. The fare is cheaper individually if you are in group since you have to divide the total fare among yourselves. Enjoy! Don’t forget to see the lighthouse too and the Kandaruma Park at the beach.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

CAOAYAN BRIDGE | Of Scooter Stroll and Night Walking Tour

“I think it is safe enough to tell that I am not overrating the bridge because as I see people passing through the bridge, they too, stand amazed.”

It was a motorbike stroll to Caoayan, a very small town south of the city of Vigan. My target is to see the Caoayan Bridge. I don’t have any idea how it looks like but just because the RHU Physician of the said town suggested that I have to see it and photograph it, I waited for the sun to go down to finally see what the RHU doctor was telling me.

A Grand Entrance!

Caoayan Bridge was undoubtedly stunning.

The road I have to take while driving the scooter was not as bright as the scene I saw in the town. So upon making a left turn going to Caoayan poblacion, the boring night turned magical!

I can’t resist my self to ride off the scooter and to just park it along the bridge and decide to just walk and enjoy the magic of the dark night!

The lights of the bridge made the dark night so bright.

It was indeed a grand entrance to the town. The ordinary bridge becomes extraordinary at night. Even some motorists and vehicle owners driving to Caoayan can’t help but be amazed and to get off their rides and cars to take photos.

Quick Walking Tour

The inviting bridge has made me decide to just walk.

I think it is safe enough to tell that I am not overrating the bridge because as I see people passing through the bridge, they too, stand amazed. They get off their rides and take a photo while staying for a while to feel the magic it brings.

Caoayan Town Hall (Sorry for the wrong photo label)

I have crossed the bridge and the scooter-stroll-turned-walking-tour lead me to the Caoayan Municipal Hall. The town poblacion was really quiet. Some barbecue stalls around are still open. I was glad to see that a big investment has come to town when I saw a super-mart chain standing at the middle of the small town.

The municipal hall has been finished too! It’s been a while since the last time I visited this town. The once small, old and not-so-good-looking municipal hall has transformed to a beautiful building!

Light reflections in my scooter’s side mirror

It’s nice to be back here. I discovered it has something new to offer aside from the popular barbecue stalls that are attracting foodies from the town and nearby towns.

The quick night walking tour in town was a quick reminder that I don’t need to ride an airplane just to see great places because some of the great places are just actually near you.

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Ambalayat Hanging Bridge | In Case You Want Off-Road in Tagudin

“I have to say you need to experience first before concluding and I found out that people at the remote barrios are warm, accommodating and kind.”

Seeing a hanging bridge over a great river, well, over a creek will do too, has always been a fascination whenever I travel. I said it is a fascination because I rarely see a hanging bridge since I am a [component] old city dweller wherein what I see everyday are >100-year-old houses and multi-century-old structures, parks and palace. Looking at individuals crossing different types of hanging bridges sparks a different kind of feeling in me. At last, there is something “new” in my sight, not really the old thing I am already used of seeing daily.

Overview

Hmmm, I am very much confident to say that the town of Tagudin should be a must-experience destination when it comes to HisTourism (History + Tourism) because unknown to many, major events in our history which are actually ‘firsts’ happened here. I will talk more about this for the next posts.

Aside from historical sites in the town, just in case you are already tired of bombarding your brain with thoughts that will compel you to invent a time machine just to be able to understand history and/or going back to school to stare for 1 hour for that boring history teacher, then I can suggest a place for you that is not related to Persian Gulf Wars, rocket science and Ming dynasty.

Location of Tagudin on Map

The people call this as Ambalayat Hanging Bridge, some also call it Ambalayat Foot Bridge. But it is more popularly called as a hanging bridge maybe because motorcycles can also cross the river using this bridge and not merely by foot. (#edmareasoning)

It is located in Brgy Ambalayat, hence the name, the last frontier of Tagudin town at the east. Ambalayat hanging bridge connects this remote barangay to the rest of [mainland] Tagudin. The barrio is being detached from the main landmass of Tagudin because of the Amburayan River that separates it. So don’t think this is an island the moment I said that it is detached from the mainland.

It is actually located at the parts of Tagudin wherein mountains start to appear closer and going further at the east would be another mountain town already.

The Little (or more) pain of Going

I am sharing this to show you how to go there and to encourage you to think twice. Yes, seriously, in case you  are a senior citizen with osteoarthritis or a good-looking man yet asthmatic exacerbated by off-road travel if ever you are unlucky enough to have that condition.

As I said, just “in case” you want some off-road adventures and careless travel memories, I am suggesting this. But of course, I won’t tell you that it is as stunning as the Golden Gate Bridge so I am carefully writing this post so as not to overrate the place.

However, I believe if you have that spirit of a traveler, adventurer, or explorer of just any town, you will love this especially if you want to discover this town deep in your heart.

Before reaching Brgy Ambalayat where this bridge is located, you have to take a mixture of cracked, muddy, and rough road. But I believe it depends upon the season. If it is dry season this is the version: Before reaching Brgy Ambalayat where this bridge is located, you have to take a mixture of cracked, dusty, and rough road. Did you notice the difference?

Reaching Ambalayat

It was an another mission accomplished. This bridge is actually on my list since a brochure of Tagudin tourism has included this as one of the points of interests in the town.

As I arrive at the place where the bridge was located, it was a mix emotion, on my part. It was an instant relief. I tell you the place is so peaceful and relaxing. There was no noise, but there are sounds, lovely sounds of the birds, and the moving air creating friction to tree branches filled with leaves. I saw the river upon reaching the place. It was calm, there was no rush. But during typhoon, practically, I believe it becomes harsh.

Crossing Ambalayat Hanging Bridge

I can say reaching the place is safe. The people won’t harm as per experience which is contrary to the belief of many that it is not safe here for strangers.

I don’t really know why most people consider remote barrios as dangerous destinations. I really hate this kind of stereotyping. I have to say you need to experience first before concluding and I found out that people at the remote barrios are warm, accommodating and kind.

Tambay Kids along the bridge

I am loving this experience. It was truly fulfilling that at least, I am able to immerse myself in Tagudin and even to get familiar to the town.

As per experience, solo travel is already enough to get immersed and to discover the town by heart.

The people I met

The moment I set foot to this remote barrio, the people already knew that I am a stranger here. Just before I crossed the bridge, I saw a group of men playing card games.

I can hear them talk about me, like “Who is that?” and they look at me with facial expressions that it is their first time to see or meet me. I did interact with them and the people were warm.

One of them was telling that he is thankful that someone like me is visiting their barrio.

A Woman Crossing the Bridge

I went to the other side of the barrio after crossing the 200-meter hanging bridge spanning the Amburayan River. It was about to rain but I still continued the journey. I walked down this new barrio, meeting new faces, seeing new places.

It was great! The unsafe rumor was just really a rumor. I went down near the river and savored the peace and “safety” of this new destination. As droplets of rain fall to my skin gently, I feel like the rain was part of the warm welcome. The experience was very memorable.

Leaving the remote barrio

It was that simple bridge that made way for me to discover the beauty of the barrio and I would not dare say that it is an ordinary bridge.

Without that bridge, I may not be able to meet kind people, to encounter a peaceful community and to experience this very beautiful barrio.

Ambalayat hanging bridge as seen from the other side

Souvenir Photo

No regrets. Going here was not easy, at least, if you are still coming from other towns or other provinces. But I don’t care whether or not this place is considered a tourist attraction. Well, I am not about that concept. The mere fact that the experience was memorable is already more then enough 🙂

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You are reading the Part 4 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

FAROLA LIGHTHOUSE | How Ilocos is Linked to Belgium

“Appreciation of our great history and heritage does not need to be embodied to grand structures because the greatest parts of the past were built from small details.”

Yes, it is really my first time to see a lighthouse, in person. I have never seen one even in my dreams. Good thing there is TV and internet. At least, they made me realize that lighthouses are not really the upscale type of houses — and not really a house, nor the bright luxurious part of an exclusive mountainside subdivision. 

First Time to See a Lighthouse

I wanted to maximize my time in the town of Tagudin. So what I did was to go to the municipal hall and meet the tourism officer. Honestly, the tourism officer was accommodating and nice. 

What I just wanted was information about places to see in Tagudin until it leveled up! Whew! I was asked to meet the Mayor!!!

Hmmm… I was already in queue, but since I only have limited time and the wait has been too long, I decided not just to meet the mayor. Outside the office, I saw a picture of a lighthouse and that was the start of the Amazing race (solo version).

Below the municipal hall is a line of yellow tricycles waiting for passengers. I was able to grab one.

And finally! For the very first time in my life, for the 24 years of my existence, through thick and thin, through all the struggles, typhoons and floods, elementary, high school, college, post graduate school and all that (LOL!), I will be seeing a lighthouse!

History (A Connection to Belgium)

Farola Lighthouse shares a slice of the history of the town. The existence of this lighthouse traces it’s roots from Belgium in Europe.

The story started when a group of missionaries from Belgium landed on the shore of Brgy. San Roque (present-day Brgy. Farola) by boat.

The group was headed by Sister Marie Louise de Meester and they set foot to San Roque on June 21, 1910. The lighthouse has been standing about 100 years now!

As a symbol of their landing in the Philippines, they built a PAROL (Lighthouse). Later on, the small Parol became famous to all fishermen and this has served as their guide when they go back and forth to the sea.

This group is called the CICM Missionaries — the group who is responsible in the foundation of the famous institution in Baguio City, St. Louis University, the St. Louis College in San Fernando City, La Union and the At. Augustine School of Tagudin.

Climbing the Lighthouse

I did not let the opportunity to pass without climbing the lighthouse. When I arrived there, it was not a grand lighthouse like what I am seeing on TV and Internet. But why be fooled by a grand lighthouse if the history and story is not as sweet and juicy as the history of this small lighthouse? 

Appreciation of our great history and heritage does not need to be embodied to grand structures because the greatest parts of the past were built from small details. I asked my guide if I am allowed to climb the lighthouse. The tricycle driver (my guide) had no idea. So what I did is to ask the residents near the lighthouse if I can do it. One lady said it’s OK.

The lighthouse is located within the residential community and there was no stunning seascape background to see unless you go near the beach… or climb it instead.

The old lighthouse is already rusty. As I step my foot to the first steel in the ladder, there was hesitation. I wasn’t sure why I still care to do it. Huh, what am I doing? The steel feels like it can be detached anytime. Actually, some have been in fair condition. But I still continued to climb it.

 

Before I reached the top, I again, was reluctant if I will continue it because of the possibility of electrocution. I am really eccentric this time that I was so compelled to climb it. Thank God I was safe!

At the top of the lighthouse are solar panels and an amazing view of the sea. I won’t recommend you to climb this. But if you want, let it be. But be cautious. A white paint concealed the old rusty steel ladder. It is medyo delikado.

Well, it was fun! What made this place worth the visit is the fact that I again learned a new lesson in history. It was not about the place itself but it was about the great event in our history that happened in that soil where I personally set my feet on. (end)

  Map of Tagudin (via Wikipedia)

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You are reading the Part 3 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

Up Next

I Visited an off-beaten destination in the town called Ambalayat Hanging Bridge. This is a great place for adventure-seekers in Tagudin.

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Tagudin Church and Belfry | Of Augustinian, Greek and Baroque Style

“The church has been restored several times since but the original appearance is maintained.”

I can sense that time that almost everyone was looking at me. I was a bit shy but I don’t want to make this opportunity to pass. I know, I am looking like a stranger that moment and I can’t help my self but to smile and look amazed while seeing the Tagudin Church, an architectural masterpiece in this town located at the southern part of the province of Ilocos Sur.

Tagudin Church

I keep on taking photos, I know my behavior was unusual. No one was doing it this time. I mean, the taking-photos-obsession thing. Obviously no one in that place that moment was taking photos and I am quite sure most of the people inside the church premises are residents of the town.

I tried to act as if I am living in the town but I just can’t hide how I was amazed seeing a new destination. The facial expression of being a newbie to see the place was hard to conceal and I just can’t resist to ask and talk with the people about several questions and curious lingerings in me.
 
Most of the people sitting near this church were parents and guardians waiting for their little kiddos to finish their school lessons for the day.

The name of their school is St. Augustine School while the name of the Tagudin Church is St. Augustine Parish Church. Within the premises of the school is the other Tagudin Sundial, the oldest sundial in the Philippines on which the school is taking care of.

The church is not located in a place so that it can be very visible to everyone. Although the church compound is located along the road, the church does not stand out in the town because it is hidden by some trees and you still need to enter the gate for you to fully see the structure.

I wanted to take my own photo with the church as the background but I became shy when almost all eyes have been focused to me. As I said, taking photos of the church seems like not common there.

Tagudin Belfry

The belfry is located several meters away from the church. Tagudin Belfry has it’s own gate and fence. It has 3 layers and the bells are placed at the 2 higher layers.

The belfry is octagonal in shape, also hidden by huge acacia trees.

Those acacia tress were huge that the belfry is almost covered from my previous location at the church yard, just in front of the church. The trees soar as high as the 3-layer belfry.

So I need to walk close to the belfry to see it wholly. The belfry is guarded with another fence and gate. I was thinking that I have to ask a permission but the gate was open and no one was around.

Much better! The belfry looks better up close. It has been painted but the paint was not enough to hide how old the belfry is. One can still see the oldness of the belfry once you see it up close.

Hmmmm. Lovely bells are there! Of course, I want to take my own photo with the belfry as the background as souvenir photo until I saw a lady inside a building in front of the belfry smiling while looking at me. She was alone and I can see she was about to laugh.

I was doing a pose with the camera on a self-timer mode and I suddenly became conscious. I was feeling that time that taking photos there is unusual or strange really. So I am landing into a conclusion that people who take photos there is uncommon.

Well, to note, the town is not a popular tourist attraction. Taking photos while being amazed could be unusual as compared to popular places where taking photos is a must and people won’t care about you even you will pose 100 times.

Tagudin Church History

The history of the construction of the church is based on a document (an official report) of the 24 cabeza de barangay of the town of Tagudin and the governor of the Ilocos Sur province in 1829. The report states that the church was built by a priest named Father Gutierez while he was still a priest of another town in La Union called Bangar. The wall was finished in two years time.

The construction of the church was continued by another priest named Father Franciso Hernandez in 1816. The said priest died in 1821 and that time, Tagudin Church was almost finished.

Other cited document states that the church’s vault, interior and presbytery were not yet completed as of 1829. The church was made of stones and brick and measures 40 brazas long and 8.5 brazas wide which are equivalent to 66.80 meters and 14.19 meters respectively.

The construction of the church was completed by Father Juan Sorolla, the prior of Tagudin in 1832. He is the same priest who installed the Tagudin Sundial, the only sundial used by the Spanish people in the Philippines when they colonized the country. It is also the first and the oldest surviving sundial in the Philippines.

The church belfry, however, was built later on. Another priest named Fr. Geronimo Rubio built the slender belfry in 1881. Father Mariano Ortiz made some restorations in the church in 1880. The church has been restored several times since but the original appearance is maintained.

Architecture

The façade of the church pervades a clear Baroque style. It has huge main door which is arched elliptically. It has Augustinian symbolisms crowned by a triangular pediment of Baroque influence.

If you are a conspiracy theorist, I am sure you will tend to be particular with the symbolisms. But I would prefer not to discuss it here because not every reader has the same way of thinking like the way conspiracy theorists do.

Tagudin Church is the southernmost structure with Baroque Architecture in the Ilocos provinces. Large and sensuously rounded, paired columns with double capitals flanked at the sides of the main entrance.

Some accounts state that some of the designs are Greek in origin as embodied to some of the decorations placed at the façade. The impediment has broken lines, very common features of the Baroque.

Historical Timeline

1814 (?): This date is not certain. But according to the report of the 24 cabeza de barangay of Tagudin and the Ilocos Sur governor in 1829, the phrase “he was prior of Tagudin” was referring to Fr. Gutierez, the one who started the construction of the church. The document further states that the walls of the church was completed in 2 years time until it was continued by another priest in 1816. So, 1816 minus 2 years is 1814. I don’t know what happened to Gutierez that the construction of the church was handed to another priest.

1816: The church construction was continued by Fr. Franciso Fernandez.

1821: Franciso Fernandez died, the church is almost finished.

1832: Father Juan Sorolla completed the construction of the church. He also built the convent now used as a school bulding of St. Augustine’s School and the 2 Tagudin Sundials (1841, 1845).

1880: Fr. Mariano Ortiz made some restorations in the church.

1881: Fr. Geronimo Rubio built the slender belfry located west of the church.

Location of Tagudin on Map

Disclaimer

This post does not promote, protect, or support any religion. This post aims to educate the readers about our history, appreciate our heritage and to promote tourism. Religious belief/preference has no bearing in this article.

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You are reading the Part 2 of our Tagudin town series

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

Up Next

Subject: FAROLA LIGHTOUSE, still in Tagudin town. Learn how Ilocos is linked to Belgium!

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Tagudin Sundial | The First Sundial in the Philippines

“Tagudin Sundial, being the oldest sundial in the Philippines is the only sundial used by the Spaniards during their era in the country.”

During those years wherein the use of wrist watch is not common or could it be common but hindi lang uso, people have devised ways to know the time. In England, they use the stonehenge to tell time. In the town of Tagudin, they use the sundial. Nope, you don’t need to dial something because the sun will dial it for you, lols :p

The First Sundial in the Philippines

They may  look ordinary. Ordinary person without the thirst for knowledge, history and interesting trivia may just say, “So what about that? A monument with numbers?”

But for history freaks and people inclined with history, this ordinary monument is a treasure to behold, a precious gem to consider and a golden part of our heritage to be taken care of.

History

Tagudin is indeed a historical town. The town had an important role during World War II. Well, I am not saying that I am pro-war. Wars have been a part of the history of mankind and there’s no way we can turn back time to revert it. The town of Tagudin is part of those wars that most of us wouldn’t agree to happen, right?

It was the site of the Base Hospital of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines-Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL) in 1945 during World War II which is believed to be the largest World War II hospital in the Philippines. The town used to be the capital of the defunct Amburayan province and the site of the military general headquarters of the Philippine Commonwealth Army 1st and 12th Infantry Division and the USAFIP-NL 121st Infantry Regiments. They were stationed in the town and was active during World War II (1942 to 1945) and Post-War Era (1945 to 1946). I will be talking more about the history of the town for the upcoming post for this series. For now, we will focus more on the sundial.

Tagudin Sundial, being the oldest sundial in the Philippines is the only sundial used by the Spaniards during their era in the Philippines. Built in 1841 and 1848 respectively, the Tagudin sundials are still in use now and considered to be accurate in telling the time. The sundials ware built by Father Juan Sorolla.

Location

There are two sundials in Tagudin. One is located at the town Plaza in front of the Tagudin Town Hall and one is located inside the St. Agustine School.

The one at the plaza is readily available for everyone. The one inside the school requires you to ask permission first. When I visited the latter, I asked permission from the security guard.

The photo above is a scene inside the St. Agustine School which takes charge of the other sundial.

Underrated and Why?

For regular tourists in Ilocos Sur, of course, they will be particualr about the city of Vigan and the ample destinations and food they can experience there, the UNESCO World Heritage Church of Sta. Maria, The Bantay Bell Tower and others. But if you ask about the Sundial, I bet few are familiar about it.

For this case, who is to blame why this historical niche in the Philippines in not well known? Are we going to blame the DOT for not promoting it? Or the Local Government Unit for not promoting it too? Or simply blame ourselves for not exerting an effort to research some historical accounts of the places we are visiting?

More about Tagudin for the upcoming posts in this series. Please keep posted!

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You are reading the Part 1 of the Tagudin town series of the #Town Explorer

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011

Tagudin, Ilocos Sur | The Jaundiced Yellow Town of Ilocandia

No… not many call it a yellow town except unless you already heard someone telling you who is not from the Land of kuripot (but hot, yummy and smart) people na itago natin sa pangalang Ilocos (I belong, just so you know :p)! But before you believe that the yellow town is Tagudin, can you please check you teeth first? LOL! It is not actually the real title of the town. Actually it a first class municipality in Ilocos Sur with a lot of major major titles that can steal the crown of Venus Raj. It is indeed a title holder town but I just want to coin a new title and I will call the town as “Yellow Town” :p Some acceptable titles are The Gateway to Ilocos, Malunggay Capital of the Philippines, and the Pearl of the Amburayan River.

Ok, I will show you some reasons why the town of Tagudin is the yellow town. But before anything else, Tagudin is not a cold town (yelo). LOL!

The Yellow Town

Yellow Tricycles. One of the lame reasons why I call the town as a yellow town is the tricycles. All public tricycles are painted with yellow. It doesn’t matter if it is dark yellow, light yellow or a new wave golden brown yellow (uh?), what is important is that you can recognize them as yellow. blahh >.<

The yellow tricycle above is the same yelow tricycle that toured me around the town. They virtually make the road (especially in poblacion) as the official dumpsite of fresh peelings of yellow bananas (those that aren’t banned in China).

Yellow Market: There you are! — the yellow market that sells yellow roses (not the real one, the plastic type made in China), yellow bikinis and yellow flip flops that will make you look like a walking mango shake (kidding, uh, please bear with the things I am saying because mango trees can bear yellow mango fruits when ripe :p).

Yellow People: Yes! They are yellow people because they are wearing yellow clothes that glare me. I have no photos because I saw them inside the municipl hall. Oh my! Taking a photo inside requires that you must be wearing a yellow underwear #fiction :p

Yellow Mangoes: I know yellow mangoes are almost everywhere, so what? I want to include it here to make this post super yellow! LOL!

Yellow Leaves: Uh? What about that? Well Tagudin is in the making as the “Malunggay Capital of the Philippines.” Seriously. But I want to leave a trivia. Malunggay leaves become yellow when their life is nearing it’s end. Do you know that?

Yellow Juice: Aside from malunggay, Tagudin has also adopted calamansi as their OTOP (One Town One Product). The town produces calamansi juice and other products from calamansi. Oh uh. Please take note that the juice needs to be yellow, please erase black gulaman in your mind because calamansi juice that is black in color requires food coloring. Oh well, the town produces healthy food for everyone 🙂

Ok, I hope I did not convince you that the town is the yellow town of Ilocos because once I convinced you, I am convinced too. LOL!

Interesting Trivia about Tagudin

The first 7-11 store in Ilocos provinces. While the Ilocos Sisters (Sur and Norte) have sprawling touristy cities like Vigan, Laoag, Candon and Batac, Tagudin is the first town in Ilocos to have a 7-11 store, whew!

The first sundial in the Philippines. Because I do not know how to use a sundial, I also don’t know what is this for honestly. But based on the context of the word sundial, this has something to do with the sun. This is the oldest surviving sundial in the whole Philippine archipelago from Aparri to Jolo (more about this sundial for my upcoming posts in this series).

First town. It is the first town in Ilocandia when you are coming from Manila either by bus or by a bicycle when you are taking the Manila North Road, lol. It is also the last town in Ilocandia when you are coming from the north either by a calesa or simply alay-lakad walking up to sawa… Indeed the first and the last.

So are you excited for the upcoming discoveries I discovered in Tagudin? Well this is just the prelude and we will spend 1 whole month or more (like 10 years, lol) to blog some details of the town of Tagudin that only me can observe the weird way, lols!

See you for the next post #TownExplorers!

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You are reading the Prelude of the Tagudin town series of the #Town Explorer 

Prelude | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

EDMARATION etc Copyright2011