Q Park, Compostela, Cebu

I am always into places where I can meditate and pray on a Black Saturday. And for this year, I and my friends have decided to spend our annual ritual in the beautiful Park situated in a far-flung barangay at Compostela, Cebu.

We started the pilgrimage by boarding on a multicab bound for Compostela and paid Php 20.00. The drop off area of Q-Park is across the Green Lagoon. From there, you have to ride a "habal-habal" or a motorcycle for hire. The fare is Php 30.00 each passenger so that makes it Php 60.00 back and forth. Q-Park is a 15 -minute ride from the highway. The terrain on your way up is quite dangerous because of the ravine plus there are no railings on the side. I didn't mean to scare you, but it's really worth the try.

We arrived high noon! So the sun is up the whole time.

SINULOG FESTIVAL 2012 in Cebu

Sinulog is the most sought after festival in the country and I must say in Asia!  It is a festivity which draws the crowd together to worship and give thanks to Sr, Sto. Niño. But do you know that Sinulog was originally a warrior dance and not a religious ritual? The duel is executed with the use of a scythe or in native term (Sundang) together with of a shield and the steps becomes more complicated as the fight becomes more and more intense. But then later on it evolves and became a dance offering to the miraculous image of Sr. Sto. Niño. For more info about its history click here or here !

A day before Sinulog (January 14), I strolled in SM City Cebu and came across with these dancers..

Simala Shrine

Monastery of the Holy Eucharist or shortly known as Simala is a place for pilgrims. A site devoted to worship. A spot that connects you to HIM and HIM to you.

One sunny day of November 30; my feet lead me to Marian Hills, Lindogon, Simala, Sibonga. Approximately, an hour and 1/2 ride from downtown Cebu.

The Pilgrim Site

The view from afar

The World Famous CPDRC Dancing Inmates

What usually comes to your mind seeing a bunch of prisoners? By instinct, you get scared, right? Visiting detention cells would be the least thing you will do. But hey, not here in Cebu! Cebuanos and foreigners alike have a completely different view. 

Why? See this video 

Thriller

(video cr: Byron Garcia)

Uploaded in 2007 and currently has 48 million views and counting. The best rehabilitation ever!

The 2nd Cebu International TESOL Conference

Last August 12 and 13, (exactly 2 months ago), I attended the gathering of intellectuals and language experts at the 2nd Cebu International TESOL Conference. Alongside with 4 keynote speakers are a hundred of lecturers from all over the world. That's how big the the delegation was! Indeed, a rare occasion where Cebu hosted such a big event. Lucky that I don't need to go to another city or worse go to another country.

Photos lifted from the USPF official website.

The Venue - University of Southern Philippines Foundation

The Conference Hall

Bruno Mars Rockin' Cebu

I know this is long overdue. But let me recollect my experiences watching Bruno Mars live in concert.

It was then jampacked! Fans were screaming and in unison it echoes; " I love you Bruno Mars". In short,     d-e-a-f-e-n-i-n-g! Such a joy watching him on stage. Who wouldn't be entertained? His songs never fails to impress.

Photo Credits: Jason Dawson

How to get at St. Benedict's Monastery

My apologies if it took me some time to update this blog. Now this is the 2nd cut of my pilgrimage to St. Benedict's Monastery .

What to do and where to ride?

St. Benedict's Monastery in Carmen, Cebu

In need of a solitary space? Want to just sit in rapture and be one with nature? Come to the non - secluded St Benedict's Monastery in Carmen, Cebu - the equally beautiful Simala of the North!

I must say that I was very fortunate to have known this place in time for Holy Week. I was needing a calm environment at that time. It did happen and I was there on Black Saturday. It was just perfect!

All along, I was looking for something like this.

The Incredible Falls of Kawasan

Kawasan Falls is a 3 - hour drive from Cebu City. It sets majestically in Matutinao town of Badian; southwest of Cebu. Quite long and strenuous travel that is , your destination is something that you must see during your lifetime.The long and mighty gushing waters from the source is heaven and unfathomable.Truly a prime gem that is peacefully snuggled in its unspoiled cove.

Station 1

Camotes: A Small Piece of Paradise!

Need a breather?

If you want to take a breather, come to the island of Camotes. I tell you this could be a perfect retreat from the hustles and bustles of the metropolis. Still not convinced? The long, powder - coated sand and crystal clear water in the island is to die for. When I heard from my friends that the beaches in Camotes are breathtaking, then I started to save a penny. Though, quite a long story, the whole kaboodle were whisked off to the island. This time without any hesitation.

Much to my surprise, the island offers something that I can't see in the metro. It may be the tranquil mood, the laidback environment and the not so commercialized beauty rolled into one. You readers have to see it in the photos as you scroll down and get a glimpse of what I'm trying to say. Some of the photos are taken by me and some shots were from my friend. Forgive us if we are not so good in finding the right angles. hahaha

Discover Camotes
You too can have a B-L-A-S-T!!...