BEST OF MY HOME PROVINCE: A TRAVEL GUIDE TO ZAMBALES

Wake up! Stop dreaming about roses, chocolates, exclusive dates, fancy restaurants, and cheesy moments. Love month is over. Get up, ransack your closets, and prepare your most comfy summer attire. Keep your school manuals and reading materials in a box, file your leave from work, get your phone, contact your friends, relatives, officemates, dates, and plan your vacation. Tell them that you’re gonna take the lead in planning; that they need to relax and put respite on their busy days.

Since it’s officially summer, this is my simple way of helping you plan your itinerary to Zambales. For the purpose of giving directions, I am going to use public transport because I don’t own a car.

Things to remember first:

1-      Zambal is not the main dialect in Zambales, it’s Tagalog. Only those located in the Northern tip of the province speak Zambal. Also, most Zambaleños speak fluent Ilocano.

2-      Olongapo is part of Zambales. It’s the first town (the only city) and transport hub of Zambales. Terminals of buses to other parts of Luzon are located here.

3-      Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is different from Subic town. Most tourists commonly refer SBMA as Subic, not the Subic town.

4-      All towns in Zambales are accessible via public transport (jeepney and bus). Transportation is not a problem except those in far-flung barangays.

5-      Zambales is easy to explore. As long as you know its 14 municipalities, you no longer need a map.

6-      Zambales has the best mangoes and pastillas.

Once you put these 6 things in mind, you are good to go.

Zambales map

BUS TERMINAL AND FARE MATRIX IN PHILIPPINE CURRENCY (PESO)

DESTINATION	VICTORY TERMINAL AND FARE				ESTIMATED TRAVEL TIME FROM BALINTAWAK (in hours)
	Caloocan	Cubao	Sampaloc	Pasay
Olongapo	202	207	207	218	2:40-2:50
Subic	221	226	226	236	3-3:15
Castillejos	230	235	235	245	3:20-3:30
San Marcelino	247	252	252	262	3:30-3:45
San Antonio	260	265	265	275	3:50-4
San Narciso	272	277	277	287	4:05-4:15
San Felipe	282	287	287	298	4:20-4:30
Cabangan	301	306	306	316	4:30-4:40
Botolan	332	337	337	347	4:40-4:50
Iba	342	347	347	357	4:50-5
Palauig	364	374	374	384	5-5:10
Masinloc	403	408	408	418	5:25-5:45
Candelaria	422	427	427	437	5:50-6
Sta. Cruz	451	456	456	466	6:10-6:20
Masinloc	403	408	408	418	5:25-5:45
Candelaria	422	427	427	437	5:50-6
Sta. Cruz	451	456	456	466	6:10-6:20

*Genesis (Cubao and Pasay) and Saulog also have trips to Olongapo.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)

ATTRACTION	ENTRANCE FEE (in Peso)	FARE (From SBMA gate in Peso)
Zoobic Safari	449	400
Tree Top Adventure	Package starts at 350	150-160
Ocean Adventure	500	400-450

*Minimum taxi fare is 70.

Zoobic Safari

If you want to experience exotic wildlife, this is the right place for you.  Aside from tigers, its natural environment makes someone feel that he is actually having encounters with wild animals in their own habitat.

There is a restaurant inside that serves affordable food. I suggest bringing your own snacks though, beverage and other refreshments like ice cream and popsicles are a little bit pricey. The management allows food inside as long as you don’t feed the animals. Safari can be toured in 5-6 hours including lunch and the animal show.

Tree Top Adventure

Wanna feel an adrenaline rush? Conquer your acrophobia? Or just pretend to be braver even just for a day? You must try this adventure. Tree drop is a must! Get a package in order to save cash in case you want to experience most of its adventures. In Tree Top, breath of fresh air and jungle-like view are a plus.

You can spend at least 2 hours here depending on your package and the number of visitors; the more the visitors the longer the queue in every adventure.

Ocean Adventure

After the wildlife and jungle, it’s time to experience the marine life. Watch sea lions and dolphins perform, wow their audience and show how adorable they are. Swim with the dolphins for 45 minutes and pay P4,200. Yes, you read that right, four thousand two hundred pesos. I am sure that would hurt my pocket but according to a friend who recently tried the encounter, it is priceless.

Happy Aleli while swimming with a dolphin. She’s wearing her priceless smile.

There are several beach resorts in SBMA, but I haven’t tried exploring its seas except when I had a quick night swimming at Camaya resort way back in 2009. Cargo ships that are very visible to my eyes dissuaded me from swimming. It gives me a feeling that the sea is exploited. This is just me.

I love the night life in SBMA though—very frisky and relaxing. Bars by the seashore are the most visited; with Pier One as the most famous. Restaurants are also dotted in the area— from the most affordable to the most expensive. Not to mention the casino and hotels. Whenever I have time and budget, I bring my family here to experience an atmosphere of the city in the province once in a while.

Reminders and Directions:

-I would recommend that you use your car if you are traveling with your whole family or with a group. SBMA is only 2 and ½ hours from Manila via SCTEX. The cost of commuting and having your private transport is almost even if you’re in a group. Besides, it’s hassle-free.

-Take a bus bound to Olongapo. Get off at Olongapo terminal. Ride a yellow or red jeepney to SM Olongapo. From SM, walk through the gate until you’re inside SBMA, and then rent a cab to your preferred attractions. Though there are buses inside SBMA, your only choice is to hire a taxi.

Islands and Beach Resorts

Zambales is a hit for many because of its unspoiled islands and beautiful beach resorts, making it as one of the most favorite vacation spots in the Philippines (yes, I pronounce! J). Its accessibility to Metro Manila and nearby provinces also contributes to its popularity.

Anawangin Cove

Nowadays, who does not know Anawangin? This is the most renowned and sought after cove in Zambales. Due to irrepressible hype, it becomes congested during summer especially in the month of April. When you try to visit it in January or February, the cove is all yours. Albeit it turns as congregation of campers this season, Anawangin still has its beauty.

There are two ways to reach Anawangin: via land and water. By land, you need to trek Mt. Pundaquit for 4-5 hours. By water, a boat from Pundaquit will take you there for 30-40 minutes. I haven’t tried to traverse Mt. Pundaquit, but travelers claim it is a very rewarding experience. I’ll do it next time.

Nagsasa Cove

This is the sister of Anawangin, and I have to be fair, Nagsasa is more beautiful. Aside from it looks more bucolic and picturesque, it is less crowded too. Its pristine waters hemmed by the mountains are soothing to one’s eyes. It got me charmed in an instant.

Photo by: Agnes Navales

Nagsasa is accessible via boat from Pundaquit for 1hr and 15 to 30 minutes.

Capones Island

Capones is famous for its lighthouse that was built during the Spanish era. It’s a good side trip in case you plan to visit either of two Zambales’ coves. Don’t forget to ascend to top of the lighthouse to get a glimpse of the peerless view of the West Philippine Sea.

It would take you 25-30 minutes from Pundaquit to reach Capones.

I’m also including here the Camara Island as another quick break in your journey going to Anawangin.

20 minutes via boat from Pundaquit.

Pundaquit

Though it serves as the jump off point to many islands and coves, for me, Pundaquit is a gem on its own. It also has a cove-like characteristic because it reclines in between mountains. Stay here until sunset and you will witness how the sun seamlessly recedes in the island. You can find classy resorts here too.

Reminders and Directions

-Hop a bus to Iba or Sta. Cruz Zambales. Get off at San Antonio public market. Ride a tricycle to Pundaquit (P30/each). From Pundaquit, hire a boat to any of your desired island/cove. If you missed your trip to Iba or Sta. Cruz, choose Olongapo instead. Get off at Olongapo terminal, and then ride a bus or jeepney that passes through San Antonio.

-I suggest you make reservations early for the boat. If you don’t have any camping gears, there are also tent for rent in Pundaquit.

This might help:

Contact person: Alvin Bonan

Numbers: 0928-779-9849 and 0917-993-5166

RENTALS:

TENT: 2pax- P250, 4pax- P400

BOAT: (Round trip) From Pundaquit to

Anawangin Cove- P200-250/ pax

Capones Island- P200-250/ pax

Camara Island- P200-250/ pax

Nagsasa Cove- P300-350/pax

Taliyasin -P300-350/pax

Smallest boat can carry 4-5 pax. Largest or the ferry boat can carry a minimum of 20 pax. Kuya Alvin can also provide a service (tricycle) to pick you up at San Antonio Market.

Prices here are as of March 2011. I’m not sure if the rates are still the same until now. You can save money if you’d do island hopping. Before, I rented a boat for 5 persons to Camara, Capones, and Anawangin for a day trip and paid discounted amount.

Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach resort is located in San Narciso, Zambales. Its friendly environment makes it a good venue for recreation, team building and family get together. It provides good spot for surfers as well. I have been here for numerous times but each visit feels like the first time.

Reminders and Directions

-There is a restaurant and canteen here. As much as you can, bring your own food because goods are a little bit pricey in the resort for budget travelers.

-Ride a bus to Iba or Sta. Cruz Zambales. Get off at San Narciso. Take a tricycle to Crystal each.

Magalawa Island

Magalawa Island will always be my personal favorite among the islands and beaches I visited in Zambales. Every time I think of Magalawa, I always remember the tranquility that snagged me while I was gazing at its scintillating white sand beach and sitting under a tree untroubled. The picture of me camping alone, feasting on variety of sea foods, and resting without minding the ticking of clock was a scene to reprise over and over.

Reminders and Directions

-You can camp here or stay in one of the resorts in the island. You are free to bring food. Worry less if you didn’t have enough because there’s a cafeteria here that serves affordable food. Palauig public market is out of way. So I discourage you to entertain any idea of buying raw food in the market. Buy goods in Manila or in Olongapo instead.

-Ride a bus en route to Sta. Cruz. Get off at  Brgy. Pangolinan, Paluig, Zambales (you will see a Pangolinan sign at the right side of the highway).  From Pangolinan, ride a tricycle to Brgy. Luan (20-25 minutes). Fare is P150 if you rent the whole tricycle. They usually allow maximum of two passengers per tricycle because of the rough roads. From Brgy. Luan, ride a boat to Magalawa Island (10 minutes).

Potipot Island

Potipot is the most prominent white sand island in Zambales. Although it is situated in the second farthest town of Zambales, tourists are willing to travel extra mile just to have a feel of its powdery sand. Potipot is a very small island that looks like a scoop of ice cream from afar. You can explore the whole island in less than 30 minutes just by your feet.

Reminders and Directions

-If you want to stay overnight in the island, I strongly suggest to bring your own tent. Although there are cottages and tent for rent in Potipot, there’s no way to make reservations because the management follows first come first served basis. Since it is just 5 to 10 minutes away from the mainland, where a lot of beach resorts are situated, you can just stay in any of the resorts that suit your taste and have a whole day visit in Potipot. There is no electricity supply in the island when I last visited it in April 2011. Even if there’s a water supply, toilet is a problem during summer due to heavy influx of people.

-Ride a bus bound to Sta. Cruz, Zambales. Get off at  Brgy. Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales. Walk or ride a tricycle to your preferred resort. Rent a boat to Potipot (400 roundtrip for 4 persons).

Mt. Tapulao

Mt. Tapulao is slowly gaining its reputation not just to mountaineers but also to travelers wanting to experience a worthy climb. I haven’t climbed this mountain yet, but a story from a mountaineer-friend would be of great help to those who long to conquer its summit one day. (story of tramping philippines)

Photo by: trampingphilippines.com

Mt. Tapulao is located in Palauig.

President Ramon Magsaysay Ancestral House

The ancestral house of the most loved Philippine president, the late Ramon Magsaysay, who died in a tragic plane crash, is located in my beloved hometown Castillejos. Since you will pass thru it before reaching Zambales’s beautiful islands, might as well include it in your itinerary. Inside, you’ll get a glimpse of his life during his childhood and when he became the chief executive of our country. Sometimes, it feels good to trace the lives of our previous presidents and be inspired by their legacies.

Directions

-Ride a bus to Iba or Sta.  Cruz. Get off at Brgy. Sta. Maria chapel. The ancestral house is located beside the chapel.

Mapanuepe Lake

Mapanuepe Lake in Aglao, San Marcelino  may be considered as one of the least recognized spots in Zambales, but it has already been featured  on Destination of Truth, an American TV series. This lake was formed during the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Flash floods submerged two barangays which later on formed into a lake. Now, only the cross of the sunken church is visible—a limpid testament how catastrophic the Mt. Pinatubo eruption was for Zambaleños.

The lake looks calm with scenic mountain framework, but its story remains disturbing and enigmatic. Visit tips and directions here

If you are a fan of old churches, you might be interested to visit these houses of worship in Zambales.

Upper left: Botolan. Upper right: Iba. Lower left: Sta. Cruz. Lower right: Masinloc.

Zambales is not only for Zambaleños, it is for the people who know how to take care of our environment regardless of nationality.  So if you are only going to tarnish the natural beauty of my home province, just stay out. And if you are a resident but participating in the devastation of its natural wealth, shame on you.

I’m indeed fortunate and blessed that I have all these in Zambales. If you think I have already explored enough, I’ll be honest, I am just starting because I am sure there are still a lot to discover about my home province.

If you visit Zambales this summer, you’ll end up singing this: “I wanna dance in Zambales, I wanna feel the heat in Zambales!” LSS right?  🙂

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Last Monday, I posted these questions on Facebook: What do you love most about Zambales? Which for you is the best place in Zambales?

Here are some of the answers:

Ng Clara: Punta de Uian kuya.. sa Pundakit San Antonio, Zambales. 🙂

Jans Julhusin: Potipot Island- it’s like having our own VIRGIN version of BORACAY!

Dane Policarpio: Definitely Mt. Tapulao. Punished us for 2 stormy days last year that’s why we came back to redeem ourselves and did a dayhike on this mountain 2 months ago. Semi-absurd and insane idea of dayhiking the highest mountain in Central Luzon but it was worth it.

Jhoy Lagman: Anawangin island is one of the best when we visited 1st time in 2009… Sad part when we visited last yr dami n nagbago, pero we still enjoyed the island…

Mary Anne Mendoza:  I really love the idea na nasa tabing dagat yung rest house mo. I have witnessed the development of your tita’s rest house, and every time n pumupunta ako dun (4-5x na?!?) there’s always something bago. So I always look forward to visit the place. Everytime I am back home from that “resort” super stress free and relax yung feeling. I really love the place kc I always feel at home! Beautiful place + Good friends + friendly people + “Micro budget” = Happy Us!

Maria Isabel Reyman: I love Pundaquit and Subic beach. It’s fun to reminisce our childhood days.

Sarah Jane Trimor: Island hopping in San Antonio

Avriel May Visitacion: I love Zambales beach.

Aleli Geraldino: Valentines day was memorable to me. I’ve finally found someone to celebrate it with. I had  a splashy date with Cito & Kira, two of the  adorable dolphins in Ocean Adventure Subic.  It was a “dream come true” for someone who loves the ocean. I’ve been yearning to touch them, to kiss them and to swim with them and that dream materialized last month. I’ve  traveled all the way from Cebu to experience this once-in-a-lifetime dolphin ride encounter. The experience might be pricey to some tourist, but at that moment, I didn’t care, I was living on a dream and from what I’ve experienced? It’s priceless.

 I hope to include yours too.

Poster made by: Felix Guiang

I Turn Red Lights Off When I Travel

“There is freedom in exploring especially when I encounter unfamiliarity. There is bliss when I see mountains and seas. There is sense of fulfillment when I reach new destination. There is sense of belongingness when I feel accepted by locals in an unknown community. Every new place I conquer, though it has already been discovered by many, is a new life because it is unique, and for me it is my discovery.”

Paved road going to Mapanuepe Lake

We may have different stories and beginnings when we heeded the call of wanderlust, but the moment we responded to the call, even if we have different reasons for choosing to be nomads, we already establish a common ground—we travel to heal.

Why did I say so?

I heard a lot of interesting narrations from travelers why they have chosen such to be part of their lives. Even ordinary people share their longing to travel and explore the Philippines and the world someday. Heartache is one of the many reasons though not the dominant one. In order to forget an unrequited love and pacify the pain, people go far away. They prefer to be alone and enjoy their solitude while traversing the seemingly unknown road, or sipping a cup of coffee or reading a book by the beach to mend what is broken and to find peace in their hearts and minds again. Some climb mountains and scream their hearts out at the summit to be relieved from the pain even just for a moment. Eventually, they healed and found new love in traveling.

For workaholics, they travel to unwind, get rid of their workload, and sometimes arrogant bosses for a number of days. So by the time they are ready to work again, they feel revitalized. Whenever workaholics feel burdened by work, they look forward to travel once more in order to heal their weak physiques. Little did they know that traveling is their weekly or monthly dose of medicine. Same goes for the sick— sunsets, blue skies, flying birds, mountains and seas cure them. Nature heals them.

A few people close to me look forward to traveling when they retire. And some want to file an early retirement for them to explore the world before the beauty of nature wanes. There are some in their 50’s and 60’s but still travel. Despite aging they travel, because traveling heals aging.

How about young professionals and students? How does travel heal them?

Everything went unexpected.

2010 was one of my most memorable years in terms of personal growth. I experienced to work for 25 hours when I dynamically participated in the much-touted national elections. I pursued law. Two months after I enrolled, I got a job promotion. When I was both fulltime student and employee, I read at least 6-8 hours a day and only managed to sleep for 2-4 hours every day. Eventually, I got exhausted and left law school. I was very frustrated for I thought I abandoned one of my dreams. My friends, mentors, and two law professors convinced me to go back but I said I needed to rest. Then I spent one night writing a long feature story, specifying my reasons of leaving so people would end their harangues on why I ditched my dream.

I bought my first DSLR which I named Lala a week after the tempest about law school raided me. Then I contacted my friends to join me on my first travel that year. Amid all the frustrations and stresses I had, I unearthed peace on Puting Buhangin in Quezon in October. It was my first healing. The next thing I knew I was planning my next trip, reading travel blogs, starting my own blog and making pledge to myself that I would travel at least once a month and share my stories with people. Everything was like a breeze, I returned to my first love—writing—and discovered new life and passion in traveling and photography.

Then it suddenly felt like I was in a race.

After my first Quezon trip, I began mapping out travel plans. November was full. I visited La Mesa Eco Park, Bataan, Nuvali and Enchanted Kingdom of Laguna, Tagaytay’s People Park, and had my first climbed on Mt. Batulao in Batangas with new found friends.

I just woke up one day that it was already December—my birthday month. Getting accustomed to celebrating it, I invited my friends to join me in Subic and Bataan. I started with short and budgeted trips before I embark on long journeys which of course entail bigger funds.

I explored Quiapo, Intramuros, and Luneta Park when January 2011 came.

In February, I went to Zambales to experience Pundaquit beach during the less humid season. I also visited Pampanga to witness how giant hot air balloons float in the air. On its last week, I found myself sitting comfortably on a Deluxe bus going to Baguio for Panagbenga Festival and to be reunited with my two high school buddies.

From Baguio, we went straight to Sagada in March. It was a fulfillment of my dream. Eversince I was a college student, Sagada has always been my dream destination. It was when traveling felt surreal for the first time. But March didn’t end there. A week after my one week vacation, I tagged my brother and cousins to join me in exploring Anawangin Cove, Camara Island, and Capones Island in Zambales. Before the month expires, I discovered Puerto Galera’s abundant nature.

Holding a wild berry from Sagada

I realized that it was already April when I saw our neighbor’s yard filled with golden yellow petals fell from Golden Shower Tree (April showers). Summertime was exciting! On Semana Santa, I toured all 14 towns of Zambales and visited the church of each town as part of my Visita Iglesia. I also conquered 2 islands and 3 beach resorts. Magalawa Island was my new discovery. It was in April when I failed to attend my home province’s Dinamulag Festival, so instead of getting upset, I rode a cab to Manila Ocean Park. Same month, I met my fellow travelers in Corregidor Island and drew inspiration from them.

During my first solo trip in Magalawa Island

May didn’t come as a surprise. I knew I would have to spend it in Metro Manila as I need to save up for bigger trips in the coming months. But it was hard for me to keep work as my daily routine. I broke the cycle thrice when I headed to Antipolo, Marikina, and Batangas during the three weekends of May.

Rainy season started to beleaguer my plans when June arrived. Though most of my planned trips did not push through, I have had the best trekking experience when I vanquished the arduous 3-hr trek to Mt. Pinatubo together with a group of travelers on June 4, 2011. After, I treated myself to a very relaxing volcanic ash spa.

July and August were my coldest travel months. I only visited Malabon Zoo and didn’t go out of town. But the good thing about it was I was able to spend most of my weekends with my family.

September didn’t start good. I cancelled my trip to Puerto Princesa, Palawan due to work-related concerns. I think it’s already part of a traveler’s life—to plan and eventually cancel it to give way to other pressing matters. But it was pacified by a food trip in Binondo and an outline of my autobiography which I long to write in the future.

After tree planting activity of Center for Environmental Concerns (CEC)

I was counting the days before Christmas when October barged in. It was fast. Since all of my major travels were in Luzon, that time, I’d given in to my desire to conquer Visayas. I toured Bohol for 3 days. Finally, I can call myself a traveler because I had already boarded an aircraft.

I was back in Luzon in November. I got mesmerized and petrified at the same time with the story of Mapanuepe Lake in Zambales. I also entered the ancestral house of our late President Ramon Magsaysay.

December was very unprecedented and kinda expensive. I made it special. Aside from indulging into the buffet dinner at Shangri-la and dining in at various classy restaurants in Metro Manila, I also flew outside the country for 6 days for the first time. Macau and HongKong were my destinations. After my vacation and  holidays, I noticed that my pockets were empty but I’m  full inside.

Yours might be diverse, but that’s how I discovered my passion in traveling.

Senado Square, Macau

Students and young professionals have various reasons why we love to travel compared to those who got settled, had built their own families, and managed to have stable jobs but still travel. We, in a very broad perspective, are still finding ourselves and our niches unlike them who have already mapped out vivid paths to take. Rooms for growth are ahead of us because to say it bluntly and in most likeliness, we are still nobody or we are still carefree. So traveling helps to heal our cluttered minds for us to clearly realize our goals in the future. In times we travel—be it with our friends, partners, or we are alone—we are in our peaceful state. The more we travel, the more we allow ourselves to be in that state, the more we attract positive thoughts, and the more we gather strength—physically and mentally. Disparate from people who never really go out and wander, our dreams in life are more lucid.

I know that everybody wants to travel, but only few are brave to see the world beyond utopia. If money is what hurdles you, I always say that traveling is not about budget, it is about passion. You can always find ways to save and start traveling.

Let’s travel while we are young. To those beyond the boundaries of youth, it is never too late. Products of science are there to help you relieve that aching bones and muscles. Remember what I had written earlier that traveling heals aging. On the contrary, traveling heals the crispness of youth. It develops us to be mature individuals with a lighter and younger hearts, and tougher minds.

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and explore!

Visita Iglesia: When the Force kept me Guarded

Do you believe in unknown forces that seem to intervene with your will, plan, and desire in a given situation? Have you found yourself at one point repeatedly uttering the “what has brought me here” and “someone wanted me to be here or to be somewhere” phrases? I’m not just pertaining to force majeure or act of God or greater force which we denote to nature’s wrath and exceptional occurrence alike. More than that, by unknown forces I mean premonition, inner conscience, and heeded voices that haunt and push us to alter our desires to something they (external forces) want. These forces are the things we can’t explain and even comprehend but we end up following them because we think it is the right thing to do and it feels right to do so.

Most of us, especially Christians, believe that sometimes God and our departed loved ones intrude in our lives to lead us to a path we didn’t foresee we would take or perhaps would influence us in making decision.  I am not a believer of outside forces or whoever-you-are-in-the-world in spirit or in flesh commanding me over something because I live in a world where, for me, “free will” is superior. But just last month, I believe that I was hauled by a certain force to accomplish things beyond my plans. And I was sure that the force came from Him.

Having a travel plot months before the Holy Week was something I joyfully looked forward when I started marking my calendar before the final day. However, as I counted the days, things weren’t going the way I intended it. I had to cancel my Vigan and Pagudpud trips because my friends blew off our original plan. This had prompted me to travel alone. Also, I haven’t tried traveling solo, so it was a good opportunity for me to do such.

Reading blogs about Pangasinan enticed me to beach-hop in the province. Drawing fervor from it, I started to arrange new travel itinerary. I bought map and prepared stuff that I would need while I joined vacationers taking time of the long weekend to be with their families.

Holy Week has always been the time for our family to get together. My relatives from Manila and other parts of Luzon usually go to Zambales during this season. The moment my mom knew about my plans to travel to Pangasinan just by myself, she immediately asked me to go home first before embarking on my journey. At first, I was tenacious in saying NO. But when my mom begged and when I heard my dog barked over the phone (which I knew one of mom’s ways to convince me) I retracted my first  answer. Besides, it’s easy to cross Pangasinan from Zambales.

New plan: 1 day in Zambales, 2 days in Pangasinan. Three days will be spent for beach and island hopping.

When I was packing my things a day before Maundy Thursday, I felt that there was an inner voice bugging me. I didn’t know who and why. To put it simply, I wasn’t at ease. I thought it was just one of the apprehensions of a sole traveler. I took a second look at my itinerary and everything seemed okay. I’ve been traveling few months before Holy Week but I haven’t been that disturbed. And what was more troubling was the growing uneasiness inside. It was really different. (I know some point in your life you also experience that there’s wrong about something but you cannot decipher what and why).

I was beginning to ask myself: should I continue? The thought ignited more discomfort since I didn’t want to ruin my whole plan. I immediately scrapped the idea, left packing and opened Facebook and Twitter. Upon reading Facebook statuses and Twitter updates about Visita Iglesia and the mere thought of including the same activity in my itinerary pacified the apprehension I had moments ago. After checking my travel plan again, I realized that I didn’t include a church visit on Season of Lent. It was supposed to be His time but I was there very ecstatic fulfilling my personal quests without even giving time for Him. Right then and there I recognized who it was tapping me—it was Him. And it signaled a more rewarding vacation with Visita Iglesia as my priority on Maundy Thursday.

Visita Iglesia is another term for Church Visit. This tradition started in Rome during ancient times. Early Christians visit 7 churches which they believe an act of repentance. But in the Philippines, Filipinos do not only visit 7 churches, some visit as much as 14 churches, in consonance with the 14 Stations of the Cross.

I visited all the Parish Churches of each town of Zambales. Coincidentally, Zambales has 14 towns. So I completed the 14 Stations of the Cross without any intention of following the tradition of devout Catholic believers.

Pictures below are the churches of each town

St. Joseph reminds me of my brother because my brother was named after him.

St. Nicholas church is the closest to my heart not only because it’s situated in my hometown but more than that, it also honed my character as a Christian through words and actions. I studied at St. Nicholas Academy for three years during my secondary years. Apart from sharpening my knowledge, the institution also taught me to be morally upright and live with the value of Christianity.

The situation of this church saddened me. Some of the locals have built flea market just in front of it making the church unnoticeable. Some even attached ropes of their stores to the fence of the church. I hope next time people would clear the area to show respect to His home.

This is my favorite among the 14 churches I visited. Its remoteness coupled with its (small) size makes the place very solemn.

Potipot Island

When I thought I would finally cap it, my solo trip didn’t end at the last town of Zambales. Circumstances had been so generous for giving me a no hassle trip and allowing me to complete my travel itinerary ahead of time. Had it not for the blistering heat, I would have stayed a little longer in Sta. Cruz. I couldn’t stand it. Besides, I still had another island in my mind so I rode a bus going back to north for me not to miss Potipot in Candeleria.

Gleaming waters of the island

I was surprised upon seeing resorts paraded on the highway of Uacon in Candelaria offering a boat trip going to Potipot Island. It’s just a 10-minute boat ride from bordering resorts along the area. I tried booking at one of the famous beach houses in town but failed due to heavy influx of tourists. Just to compensate myself, I accepted the offer of a boatman with optimism that I could get a cottage or tent when I reach the island. It was another failed attempt. Cottages were full and reserved, so my choice was to keep myself shaded under a tree.

White sand

Potipot is located in the wealthy mainland of Candelaria, Zambales. It’s a very small island which can be toured in 20 minutes. It has fine white sands that do not hurt one’s feet with a beach suitable for swimming.

I did enjoy my stay on this spot. Breezy

It was my second time in the island and nothing has changed ever since I visited it two years ago. The place still looked untouched. There was no major development in the area except for several comfort rooms erected in the middle of the island. The only setback I noticed was the increase of entrance fee compared to my previous visit.

Middle portion of the island

The beach was cleaner since sea grasses were removed for visitors to have wider space to swim. Powdery white sand and turquoise-like water were still impressive and glowing. Surely, one would love to spend more time swimming. However, long weekend wasn’t the perfect time to visit this place. The prominence of the island combined with its accessibility from the neighboring resorts lured vacationers to troop here. But given such case, one could still find a good spot by bringing tents.

Back part of the island from resorts in Uacon

Tree house

This open area does not harbor trees

Cottages in the island look like this

Stories behind the island

My eagerness to capture things through my lenses almost brought me misfortune. I was wandering around the island for already 20 minutes when I found out that I dropped my Iphone somewhere. Where to start searching in this crowded island? I was alone and was sure that nobody would even care about my problem.

Right before things turn odder, I headed to the entrance and borrowed a phone from the caretaker so I could call my number and the person (whoever-he/she-is-with-a-kind-heart) that possibly have it. (Thanks to the good man who lent me his phone and assisted me to look for my phone.)

Things turned worst as we searched for it because my phone was in silent mode. I was forlorn after 10 minutes of not seeing it while convincing myself that whoever finds it and has no interest of returning might be in dire need. I was sort of consoling myself to lessen the impact of my negligence.

I dropped my phone somewhere here

As I was saying the not-to-spoil-moment to myself, a person approached me and asked what I was looking for. After telling him the whole thing, he handed the phone to me while saying: “I saw you weary looking for something a while ago, here’s your phone.” My face immediately glowed when I got reunited with my phone.

(To the person who returned my phone, in case you’re reading this blog, my sincerest thanks. You are one worth emulating.)

After this incident, I joyfully roamed around Potipot island. This time, with caution. This experience keeps reminding me that there are good people out there; that a stranger can be kind to another stranger.

Declaring my admiration to the place

TIPS

Make sure you bring enough food when you visit Potipot. There is only one store in the island located at its entrance. The store only sells water, other canned beverages and junk food. Better bring tent if you would stay overnight. No tents for rent in the island. No electricity, too. Cell signal is not a problem.

If you want a more comfortable accommodation, I suggest that you stay at a resort in Uacon, then do a day trip in Potipot island.

FEES/RENTALS

Boat- P400/boat roundtrip. Boat can accommodate 4 persons.

Cottages- P1000/small. There are big cottages for the whole family or big group. I did not get the price of the big ones though. There is a tree house for rent for P5000. (see the picture above)

Entrance- P100/ day tour

P300/ overnight

How to get to Potipot Island through public transport

1-      Ride a Victory Liner bus going to Sta. Cruz, Zambales. Terminals are located in Caloocan (near monument LRT station), Cubao and Pasay. It’s a 6-hour drive. Fare is around 300-400.

2-      Get off at  Brgy. Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales. Candelaria is the 13^th town of Zambales from Olongapo.

3-      You can walk or ride a tricycle to the nearest resort. From the resort, rent a boat that will bring you to Potipot island. It’s just 10 minutes away.

Magalawa Island in Solo

I was sitting on a bench, browsing a travel magazine, and watching people enjoy their time on the beach while their boisterous laughter filled the humid air. There were times I eavesdropped on interesting conversations of groups not too far away from my back which in turn made me smile and quip unheeded words.

Tourists. Yes, they were. They came from other provinces and cities to experience what my province has in store for them.

While most of them were hustling things, I preferred to stay in one corner relishing my seclusion and the placid world I just discovered. The afternoon atmosphere didn’t bother my mood as I continued doing nothing and not minding anyone or anything. For the first time in my life, all I had to do that fleeting moment was to think of myself. And it really felt liberating.

After a couple of minutes, I became envious and tired of watching them do it. I quickly ran to the shaded part of the island as fast as I could, placed my backpack under a Camachile  tree, took my shoes and shirt off, prepared my camera’s shutter, and dipped into the waters.

It was my first taste of Magalawa island. And my first solo travel.

First solo trip

I could still vividly recall that the idea of traveling solo just crossed my mind when I read a post from a Facebook page of a group of Filipino travel bloggers encouraging its members to join the group’s monthly blog carnival which would tackle solo traveling. Since I am part of it, I was invited to write my own piece. Being a novice traveler, I really haven’t tried doing it. Thus, I shrugged the idea off since I have nothing to contribute.

White sand

Holy Week was just around the corner when thoughts about solo traveling elicited excitement on me. I knew I would be going to spend it in Zambales with my family and friends for a small get together which we usually do every year. Coincidentally, the release of collated travel stories of Filipino travelers would be after Holy Week. Maybe this was the chance I was looking for to finally go somewhere just by myself.

I did take the opportunity.

Trees in the island

This solo travel allowed me to savor liberty to its fullest. No one is really in control of your will to do things. Freedom isn’t bequeathed; it is something you have already acquired the moment you get to recognize your capacity to do a thing and to act on it. But your freedom could sometimes be restrained by your values or by people you choose to be with.  In a group trip for instance, although you have the power to exercise it, you hold it back sometimes because there is such a thing as consensus everyone should abide. If the rule of majority has to prevail, your freedom to differ from the decision of many has to be waived as well. Presuming that it isn’t inhumane, you have to follow what the group wants. If it’s about itinerary, you have to follow what’s in it.

Lunch time. Sweet and Sour Tuna and Shrimp Halabos

This is one thing I treasure about solo traveling. I get to enjoy my liberty without taking into consideration other people when it comes to choices of destination, activity, and even food to eat. All I have to do is to think of the best way of maximizing my time and the most rewarding experience I could give to myself. And if you have this pristine island to exercise this liberty, what else could go wrong?

Dinner: Ginataang tuna, sinigang na tuna and veggies

Dining area

This also gave me time to get to know myself better. When you are alone and run out of things to do, all the more you would have reasons to take a slice of solitude from this big world. Since you have all night to stare blank at the distant universe, thoughts would naturally permeate your peaceful mind. Believe me when I say that it is the best time to think of your future goals, find courage to transform dreams into reality, assess the decisions you’ve made in the past, and welcome vast possibilities and opportunities that would come your way.

Campers shaded by trees

While solitude acquires the ability to bring back memories of unwanted endings and beginnings, it also helps you deal with it, move forward to forget it, and reconcile with the many regrets which haunted you before. If at some point you realize that you’re faulty in some aspects of life, this private time would help reevaluate your values and succumb yourself to the process of change.

Blugreen waters of island

Since I am already in the island, I took advantage of its consoling powers, because solitude is best relished when you are consorted by a portion of galaxy occupying the dim skies above with waves rushing towards the fine shore just beneath your feet.

I spent most of my time here

Sometimes, along with your prejudices on the dangers of exploring the world alone, you also entertain the likelihood that it could be treacherous. However, in spite of the prevailing negative thoughts, you still prefer to go and take the first pace of being a solo traveler. Yes, you are aware of the dangers it could bring, but you know you can get away with it. This is what solo travel teaches— to trust yourself more.

When you are out there, it becomes you between the worlds; you between strangers; you between unknown possibilities. With all these uncertainties surrounding you, the only certain thing is that you are there ready to take whatever it is that life might possibly throw in that precise moment. Because you know you can handle anything.

Raft

Starfish. You can see many of them in the island

The execution of my plan to travel solo came into fruition at five in the morning with the goal of traversing the entirety of Zambales by hopping from one town to another to visit Catholic churches. Shortly before noon, I already boarded an ordinary bus that would bring me to Palauig where I could ride a boat to Magalawa island. My initial plan was to stay here for only 5 hours so I could still visit the remaining three towns of Zambales early morning next day and make it to Pangasinan before noon. However, upon setting foot on the white sand of the beach, all my plans got twisted.

Disparate to other beaches which are only good in pictures, this island is more beautiful in bare. And me, being here solo, made every moment perfect.

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I stayed at Armada’s resort.

RENTALS

Boat- P500 round trip for 5 pax. The island is only 10 minutes from the coast of Barangay Luan. If you arrange a special trip, you’d shoulder the whole amount. You could bargain with the owner.

Tent- P400 for 4 pax

Entrance fee- P300/overnight

I wasn’t able to get their room rates. I think it would be best if you contact them through their fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Magalawa-Island/204336016808?sk=notes

How to get to Magalawa island through a public transport:

1-      Ride a Victory Liner bus going to Sta. Cruz, Zambales. It’s a 5-hour trip. Fare is around 300-400.

2-      Get off at  Brgy. Pangolinan, Paluig, Zambales. Palauig is the 11^th town of Zambales from Olongapo. You would see a Pangolinan sign at the right side of the highway.

3-      From Pangolinan, ride a tricycle to Brgy. Luan. Fare is P150 if you rent the whole tricycle. They usually allow maximum of two passengers per tricycle because of the rough roads going there. It would take you around 20-25 minutes before you reach Bgry. Luan.

4-      From Brgy. Luan, ride a boat to Magalawa island. It would take you only 10 minutes.

Contact person:

GRACE ARMADA (09209483303)

Zambales: Anawangin Cove

I now have the guts to share this story:

On the 21st of June 2009, my college friends and I set our first reunion. It would be our first, and also Mackie’s first time go home after being relocated to Singapore for a better job. Since the time calls for a celebration, we all decided to make it different and have an out of town trip to Zambales. With Mackie shouldering the expenses for accommodation and food, 11 among our batch  joined.

June is rainy month  in the Philippines. But it never stopped us to proceed with our plan of going to the  beach. It was raining hard when we arrived at Pundaquit, making us all in agreement to abandon our island hopping activity the next day. Same day, I also received a call from my parents warning me not to go to Anawangin due to bad weather. I assured them.

Come next morning, the cloudy skies were suddenly wiped out by the sun. This had raised our hopes and brought our initial plan to life. We immediately contacted a boatman if we could sail to Anawangin since it was getting sunny. Upon his approval, we then proceeded.

We were ferried by three small boats. It was a  smooth ride at the onset, until all of a sudden, we were smacked by the treacherous waves. The clouds turned gray and the wind started to blow tough across an angry sea. It was a no-turning-back moment, so our boat strove steadfastly against the murky waves. It wasn’t that easy. Our boatman had to give his best to dock us safe. After battling with the strong current, we managed to reach the ground.

I turned pale upon taking my first paces on the fine shore of the cove. It was the first time my friends saw me in great tremor because I just stayed in one corner  and was quiet the whole time. I was actually worrying about our way back which prompted me to bring up a crazy idea by suggesting that we should trek the mountain instead.

I didn’t know why fear was very dominant in me albeit we have life jackets, I could swim, and I was used to sailing rough seas before. Maybe I worry not for myself but for the lives of my friends who were with me. I couldn’t disregard myself from the equation if something bad happened to us  because it was my idea in spite of the caveat from my parents.

When it was already drizzling, we all got up the shore to leave. I thought we were going back to Pundaquit but my friends still wanted to go to Capones island. I refused adamantly. However, after so much convincing and prayers, I unwillingly  joined the club.

Two hours passed and we were back  at Pundaquit coast safely. From then, I became  a laughing stock of my friends whenever we reminisce our trip to Zambales. They were the adventurous guys, and I was the coward one. Now, I have finally got over that embarrassment and learned to laugh about it too.

This experience has given me more reason to visit Anawangin during dry season. Just last week, I made it back. And Yes, it was love at second sight.

Anawangin Cove lies in San Antonio, Zambales.  It’s a 30-45-minute boat ride from the shores of Pundaquit. It is a beach enclosed by mountains. The existence of pine trees does not only add beauty to the place but makes the cove more rustic and enigmatic.

I decided to spend the whole afternoon in Anawangin after having a brief stay at Camara and Capones islands throughout the morning. It was totally different from the first time I saw it. Murky water during wet season turned into glowing bright-green and blue. The entire sea was calm and appeared to be very accommodating to us. Visiting it in March was a perfect timing because most travelers start exploring Anawangin in April—the official vacation month of students. Deviating from the peak season gave me more time to enjoy its serenity and devour its gratis charm.

Behind the pine trees reclines a river that contributes to the stillness of the place. It stretches along the whole curve of Anawangin. However, there’s no portion where the sea and river intertwine. The beach offers its fine gray sand. Unlike other islands in Zambales, though it’s not white, Anawangin has the perfect beach sand. There’s no rough part and it’s powdery.

There’s no concrete infrastructure in Anawangin which for me is better in order to preserve its uniqueness. Looking for shades is not a problem since trees are very abundant everywhere. This is also the reason why campers prefer to stay here over night.

To those who are looking for a perfect getaway this summer, include Anawangin cove in your list as early as now. Go ahead. Be astounded. I’m sure you will appreciate it and maybe, also fall in love with it instantly at first sight.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER:

Make sure to make reservations before your trip. It will save you time, money and energy.  I attached the details of my contact person below.

1)      Anawangin is divided into several resorts. I recommend you stay at Mansayon Beach Resort. Entrance fee for day trip is P50 and P100 for overnight stay. So far, it’s the best resort in the area. Though all resorts are almost the same, Mansayon has the best location. Wooden tables and benches are also provided for free.

2)      If you don’t have a tent, you could rent at a store managed by Ligaya Mansayon or in some resorts located in Pundaquit. If you already have a contact person, I suggest that you ask him to reserve tent for you.

3)      You will be able to use your phone only to take pictures or play music. There’s no cellular signal in the area. If you’re not with your special someone, forget him/her first. It’s the best time for you to enjoy your freedom. (Haha!)

4)      Save your battery. There’s no electricity in Anawangin. Most campers bring battery-operated lamp.  Firewoods are being sold in the area for P120 per bulk.

5)      Bring enough food and water if you’ll stay overnight. The water from water pump in Anawangin is not potable. If possible, do not buy food in any stores in Anawangin to protect your pocket from harm. Goods are expensive. Example: 1.5-liter soft drink- P80, litro pack juice- P20, ice-P20, shampoo-P10. It’s always double the price of retail store. Although I understand the store owners because the beach is isolated.

6)      There are comfort rooms in the area. No shower. Learn to fetch water from the pump. Deal with it and stop complaining.

7)      Don’t swim at night especially when you’re drunk. Again, no electricity. It’s hard to see people in the sea.

8)      There’s no corkage fee.

9)      Bring plastic bag and dispose your waste properly. Every visitor shall observe cleanliness in Anawangin.

Here’s the best deal I found:

Contact person: ALVIN BONAN

He’s also an owner of a small resort in Pundaquit.

Amenities: If you want to stay in Pundaquit, there are cottages available for P400-600. It’s a small Nipa hut, with bamboo bed and table inside. Shower rooms will be renovated next week, according to the owner. Two video-oke machines are also provided.

Contact numbers: 0928-779-9849 and 0917-993-5166

RENTALS

TENTS: 2pax- P250, 4pax- P400

BOATS: (Round trip) From Pundaquit to

Anawangin Cove- P200-250/ pax

Capones Island- P200-250/ pax

Camara Island- P200-250/ pax

Nagsasa Cove- P300-350/pax

Taliyasin -P300-350/pax

Smallest boat can carry 4-5 pax. Largest or the ferry boat can carry a minimum of 20 pax. Kuya Alvin can also provide a service (tricycle) to pick you at San Antonio Market.

Prices are always negotiable so please learn how to negotiate. You can get the best deal if you choose to go to two or more islands.

HOW TO GET TO ANAWANGIN COVE

Using a public transport

1-      Ride a bus bound to Iba, Zambales or Sta. Cruz, Zambales. There are Victory terminals in Caloocan (Monumento), Cubao, Sampaloc and Pasay.

2-      Get off at San Antonio Market.

3-      From there, ride or rent a tricycle to Pundaquit.

4-      From Pundaquit, rent a boat to bring you to Anawangin.

Approximate travel time is 4 hrs from Manila to San Antonio through public transport. But it would only take you 3-3 ½ hrs if you have a private vehicle. Of course, it varies on the time of your travel.

(Date of travel: March 19, 2011)

Zambales: My Fifth Glimpse at Pundaquit

Most Filipinos consider the month of March as the official advent of summer in the Philippines. However, with climate change being experienced around the world nowadays, it’s hard to tell whether or not we are going to enjoy the same season as we did in the past.

Adept weather forecasters said that we will experience “wet summer” this year due to climate change. It is a major spoiler for most who look ahead of sunny season since it is the perfect time  in the year to tour beaches, hop from one island to another and visit summer  destinations around the country.

Aside from being tagged as the “love month,” February is deemed as the country’s period where we get to experience relatively cold weather. Just when everybody feels like it’s the best time to visit high places, I pushed the green button for early summer and headed straight to my province— Zambales.

Pundaquit beach is located in San Antonio, Zambales—second town from my hometown (Castillejos) and fourth town from Olongapo. Pundaquit is one of the barangays in San Antonio. In Zambales, when you say Pundaquit, most locals refer to it as beach. Maybe because of the fact that the barangay resides in a coastal area. So when people say “let’s go to Pundaquit,” it’s tantamount to saying “let’s go to the beach.” This is not the most accessible coast from Castillejos since it would take 25 to 40-minute drive to reach it depending on the mode of transportation. Even if various resorts in Subic entail only 15 minutes of travel, still, I prefer to go to Pundaquit because resorts in Subic are prone to commercialization. Thus, it also affects the condition of its beaches, unlike in Pundaquit where most resorts are like residential areas occupied by nipa huts. Somehow, it gives one a feeling of tranquility and isolation.

For someone like me who can simply appreciate the abundance of nature, it will always be a pleasure to see beaches deluge with mountains and trees. Pundaquit doesn’t offer white sand and turquoise-like water, but it proffers natural glow which makes you feel away from pollution and draggy vibe of the city.

How could you not be amazed on a scene where sea waves directly hit the rocky mountain’s foot before it reaches the shore? How could you not be mesmerized to the perfect view of sunset?

Pundaquit also serves as terminal point of the tourists hankering to see Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove and Capones Island. From Pundaquit, it takes 30 minutes to reach Anawangin, more than an hour to Nagsasa, and 25 minutes to Capones.

With fine and greyish sand, the sea water is abruptly deep few meters from the shoreline. Resort owners describe it as “biglang lalim” and warn visitors who do not know how to swim not to go farther to avoid any undesirable incidents. It’s not like any other beaches where even if you’re already 10 meters away from the shore, water level remains chest-deep.

This is absolutely a perfect beach for swimmers and surfers who look for added adventure during their stay. The primary source of income of people living around the area is fishing. So expect that while you’re swimming, fisherfolks flock in the area taking advantage of the vast sea to catch fish. This scene is very visible in the wee hours of the morning. It somehow benefits picnic goers craving for fresh fish since fisherfolks sell it at very reasonable prices.

If you are getting rid of sunburn, February is a good month to visit Pundaquit due to the not-so-humid weather. Plus, mountains surrounding the barangay appear on its magnificent shape. I visited Pundaquit last weekend and recorded it as my fifth.  I tagged my cousins along to spend breakfast with me at the beach. Just twenty minutes after we left our home, heavy rains started to pour. And five minutes upon our arrival, the sun said hello.

We stayed at Sunset View Beach Resort, my uncle’s resort (he’s my dad’s relative). The resort has several cottages made up of Kawayan. There are two big rooms for visitors who want to stay overnight, one is air-conditioned. They call it family room. Availing a free stay is one of the advantages of having a relative that owns a resort.

Pundaquit never fails to astound me whenever I have the chance to drop by. As I surely love to go back over and over, my hopes are also high that its inhabitants would preserve it as what it is at present and keep the beach untouched by modernity. I believe it is better keep that way.

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As expression of gratitude to my uncle who always offers his humble abode and resort to us, I’m leaving here his contact details. They have big boats that can accommodate groups who plan to visit Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove and Capones Island.

Contact person is Lito Pastelero. Contact numbers: (0915-535-9463 and 0920-877-5088).

Entrance fee: P50/head

HOW TO GET TO PUNDAQUIT

Using a public transport

1-      Ride a bus bound to Iba, Zambales or Sta. Cruz, Zambales. There are Victory terminals in Caloocan (Monumento), Cubao, Sampaloc and Pasay.

2-      Get off at San Antonio Market.

3-      From there, ride or rent a tricycle to Pundaquit.

Approximate travel time is 4 hrs from Manila through public transport. But it would only take you 3-3 ½ hrs if you have a private vehicle. Of course, it varies on the time of your travel.

Date of travel: February 5, 2011