Christians celebrate November 1 as All Saints' Day. In the Philippines, it is referred to as Todos Los Santos, Araw ng Mga Patay, and Undas. It is also a holiday in the Philippines. It is a time for many Filipinos to go back to their provinces to visit the members of their families who already passed away. It is also a time for some to hold family reunions. Such is the case for our family.
Undas 2019
For Undas 2019, we hit the road again going to my mother's hometown of Atimonan in the province of Quezon. Here's how we spent our 3 days in the province: Day 1:November 1 My family and I left our house in Cavite at around 3:30 AM to pick up my cousins at McDo Southwoods. From there, we drove south via South Luzon Expressway then Star toll before continuing on to Quezon Province via the Maharlika Highway.
Destination reached! De Gracia Beach and Leisure Resort in Atimonan
Oh! Are those my dad and uncle's pickup trucks?
...and there they are talking about the pickup trucks
The waves are rough... it's not the best time to swim
Time to give respect to our loved one who already passed away in Atimonan Municipal Cemetery - Atimonan, Quezon
The family mausoleum
Time to light our candles and offer prayers
We reached De Gracia Beach Resort in Atimonan at around 8:30AM. We then checked in to our room for the next two days, rested a bit, then drove to the town proper to visit the family mausoleum.
Welcome to Green Park Atimonan
This is a nice place to relax and be one with nature
You can check out a bird checking out a bird...
...and a feline doing his thing
The pinais
The other dishes served during the mini-reunion
After giving respect to our departed loved ones, we headed to Green Park Atimonan for lunch. My mom already pre-ordered several local dishes like the pinais which was a dish made from hipong gubat (river shrimp) and coconut milk, adobong hipon, ensaladang pako, and several others. It was quite a feast as many of our distant relatives came to celebrate the day with us.
Time to eat!
Happy birthday to the October celebrants - L-R My mom, Tita Pinky, my wife, and Tita Melinda
After the feast, we headed back to De Gracia Beach Resort and spent the night discussing our plans for tomorrow over beer and nuts. To sum it up, this day was a day of reconnecting with people we rarely see. It was also a day of remembering those who were not with us anymore. Day 2:November 2 The first thing we did today was to wake up early and stroll along the beach. Sadly, the beaches were covered with natural and man-made trash. When asked, the locals would explain that they clean their beachfront every day but the waves bring in tons of garbage to this side of Lamon Bay due to the Amihan or Northeast Monsoon. To cut the long story short, October to February might not be the best months to visit the beaches of Atimonan.
Amazing view of Lamon Bay from De Gracia Beach Resort
After breakfast, we prepared and drove to Barangay San Rafael "Summit", which is also in the town of Atimonan, to visit our relatives living there. After the usual catching-up chats and the awesome lunch, we proceeded to the highlight of today's activity -the skitride.
Heading to Barangay San Rafael, Atimonan to visit our relatives
Glad to see everyone again
What is a reunion without food?
A skit is a small wooden motorized rail transportation that replaced the regular trains in this part of Quezon. It has a capacity of around 10 people and a speed that can reach around 30-40 kilometers per hour.
Waiting for the skit
There it is!
We rented two skits (P300 per skit) to bring our big family to one of the hidden gems of the barangay which was Natulo Dam. To reach it, the skits would have to cross a river via the 60-70 foot high Tulay Buwaya. As part of the adventure, the skits stopped in the middle of the said bridge for us to take photos. Doing so would mean that you have to board down the skit and walk at the tracks on the trestle-type bridge.
Ella and Junah is excited about this adventure
Our skit is here. Time to go!
Quick stop at Tulay Buwaya
The family visits Tulay Buwaya
When our adventurousness was satisfied, we then proceeded to Natulo Dam. It might look like a typical dam at first but it presents visitors with one hair-raising challenge -crossing it to get to the other side. To do so, one has to walk on a walkway on top of the 30-foot tall dam. The walkway measures about 40 meters long and 15-20 inches wide.
Exploring Natulo Dam
Going own to Natulo Dam
Natulo Dam
Ella crossing Natulo Dam
However, take note that it does not have any guard rails to hold on to and there would be no nets to catch you when you fall. Regardless, we successfully crossed it, of course, even my 6-year old daughter.
Here's our Skit Ride video
We didn't stay long though, we rode the skits back to Barangay San Rafael, rested a bit then headed back to De Gracia Beach Resort. From there, my cousins and I decided to head to the Poblacion (city center) of Atimonan to visit the cemetery and go on a food trip. However, since my uncle was heading there as well, we decided to hitch a ride on his pickup truck.
Visited our relatives in Sacred Heart Memorial Park - Atimonan, Quezon
Visited our relatives in the Catholic Cemetery of Atimonan - Atimonan, Quezon
Although it was a food trip, we first decided to attend the anticipated mass at Atimonan Church AKA Our Lady of the Angels Parish Church. Afterward, we walked around town looking for food to munch. Our first stop was at 711 (seriously), then dumplings and finally fries from a local carenderia. We would have wanted to look for more food but it suddenly rained. It was just in time as my uncle texted us that he was on his way back to the resort so we hitched back. That night we discussed our plan tomorrow. I suggested that we leave very early to avoid traffic brought by the influx of vehicles going back to Manila, to which they all agreed. Day 3 - November 3 This is it, time to go back home. We checked out of De Gracia Beach Resort and headed back to Manila. There's nothing much that happened during our drive back but it was a good decision as we did not encounter much traffic.
Usual stopover at Mcdonald's near Villa Escudero
We reached home a little past noon and overall, it was a memorable two days. We are now looking forward to our next family adventure. How about you? What's your plan for this Undas?
Located in the center of the Poblacion or town proper of Imus City in the province of Cavite, Imus City Plaza is one of the city's scenic and historical attractions. Imus City Plaza Imus City Plaza Details This plaza is located in front of the equally historical Imus Cathedral and Imus City Hall . Imus City Plaza is also the first place to greet you if you're heading to the cathedral via Sapinoso Street. Imus City Plaza - Imus City, Cavite General Licerio Topacio The general guarding the flag Checking out each angle of the monument Imus City Plaza History Imus City Plaza is probably easily remembered because of the monument with two vintage artillery flanking it. The monument stands as an honor to the children of Imus who joined the fight for the independence of the country against Spain. As for the man standing on top of the monument, he is General Licerio Topacio . He is one of the most notable sons of Imus. He is famously known for honorably declinin...
Updated: October 30, 2020 Our adventure today will take us 46.11 kilometers south from kilometer 0 in Manila. The historic atmosphere still lingers due to the historical landmarks that you can see all around this place. One of the most famous landmarks this city has to offer is the Rizal Shine or more popularly known as Rizal's house. However I'm not here to give you a history adventure but instead, I will tell you the different side of this city. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa Calamba City in the province of Laguna is a city that has more resorts than the number of days in a year. Because of the fast-growing number of resorts (661 and counting), this city earned the nickname Resort Capital of the Philippines. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa - Calamba, Laguna Travelers and resort seekers who didn't read my blog The Adventurer's List would surely be unprepared for what's to come. It would surely take a day for you to choose and pick the most suitable reso...
Located in Barangay San Pedro in Sto. Tomas in the province of Batangas, the National Shrine of St. Padre Pio is a pilgrimage site dedicated and inspired by Saint Padre Pio. National Shrine of St. Padre Pio National Shrine of St. Padre Pio History The shrine initially started out as a bamboo and nipa chapel back in 2003. Then on November 7, 2005, a 1.6-hectare agricultural land was donated to the Archdiocese of Lipa by a generous couple. A year later, another generous individual donated 200 square meters of land to provide the right of way to the site. This land would be the site of the new chapel and later on the Shrine of St. Padre Pio . The salakot like roof as seen from the bell tower Devotees hanging handkerchiefs dipped in the Well of Hope or Bukal ng Pag-asa St. Padre Pio welcomes the pilgrims to the shrine Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry - National Shrine of Saint Padre Pio St. Padre Pio belltower St. Padre Pio painting A relic inside the Reli...
Located on the island of Cagraray in Bacacay in the province of Albay, Cagraray Eco-Energy Park is an eco-park that is known to offer various recreational and ecological activities to its visitors. Cagraray Eco-Energy Park Cagraray Eco-Energy Park Details Cagraray Eco-Energy Park is a project of the Eco-Trail Foundation Society, Inc in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The 110-hectare eco-park was the first-ever ecological park in the province. Cagraray Eco-Energy Park - Bacacay, Albay Cagraray Eco-Energy Park offers a plethora of activities aimed at thrill-seekers, outdoorsmen, sightseers, and even pilgrims. Welcome to Cagraray Eco-Energy Park Before the COVID 19 Pandemic, Cagraray Eco-Energy Park offers the following activities: Wall climbing Rappelling Zipline Eco-Trekking High Ropes Course Paintball/airsoft Horseback riding Swimming Camping Other activities that do not require visitors to pay extra are the...
Located in the vicinity of Mt. Nagpatong in Maragondon in the province of Cavite, Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park mark the supposed place where Andres Bonifacio and his brothers Procopio were executed in 1897. Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park History We learned from the previous post about Bonifacio Trial House the story of the trail leading up to the last days of Andres Bonifacio . Since I did not fully elaborate on his death, I think it is very relevant to talk about it now in relation to our featured destination - The Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park . Check out the images on the BAYANI Check out the images on the KKK A perfect angle to see the KKK and Bayani I'm wondering if that face is scared, shocked, or excited... The statue of Andres Bonifacio wearing a very fashionable camisa de chino Our local guide showed us the way to the peak of Mt. Nagpatong After his...
Located in A. Luna Street, corner Timbol Street the town of Concepcion in the province of Tarlac, Aquino Ancestral House is an old Pre-war mansion owned by the (highly political) Aquino clan. Aquino Ancestral House Aquino Ancestral House History The Aquino clan, as most of us know, is a political clan known for producing generations of politicians. The most famous (and last occupant of the house) is Benigno Aquino Jr. also called Ninoy by most. He is the senator turned martyr during the Marcos regime. His wife would then become the 11th President of the Philippines after his assassination and the subsequent EDSA People Power Revolution that toppled Marcos from his seat of power. Several decades later his son Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III would become the 15th President of the Philippines. Aquino Ancestral House - Concepcion, Tarlac The house is surprisingly well maintained Aquino Ancestral House NHI Marker The beautiful maiden in the garden Check out the roo...
Located in Mataas na Kahoy in the province of Batangas, Shercon Resort and Ecology Park is fast becoming a popular destination for those who are escaping the hustle and bustle of the Metro. Shercon Resort and Ecology Park Shercon Resort and Ecology Park Details Shercon Resort and Ecology Park 's location in the highlands of Batangas offers visitors a picturesque panoramic view of Tagaytay and Taal Lake. This serves as a perfect backdrop for selfies and weddings. Panoramic view of the resort's most famous pool Welcome to Shercon Resort and Ecology Park What's great about this resort is its affordability. Its P250 entrance fee for adults and P150 for kids 4-7 years old combined with the scenic beauty of the place gives other resorts in Batangas a run for their money. One can also rent cottages ranging from P800 - P2000. You can check these out in the RATES section of this article. Visitors may also choose to stay overnight. This is highly recommended if you ...
Located in Kawit in the province of Cavite, Aguinaldo Shrine is the ancestral home of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippines. It is famously known as the house where the Filipino flag was formally unfurled to the public after the declaration of Independence on June 12, 1898. Aguinaldo Shrine Aguinaldo Shrine history Constructed in 1845, the house became a silent witness to the shaping of the Filipino nation. It all began on March 22, 1869, when Emilio Aguinaldo was born in one of its rooms. Years later, the house became a meeting place for revolutionaries. It was here that many of the most important revolutionary plans were made. Aguinaldo Shrine - Kawit, Cavite Contrary to popular belief this balcony was not there when the flag was first shown to the Filipinos. Lastly, the house became a symbol of freedom when the flag a hoisted and shown to the public during the declaration of independence from Spain. This event is known today as the Araw ng ...
Do you want to witness and be part of the exciting and colorful cultural activities in the Philippines in this month of April ? Please check out the list of popular fiestas or festivals happening this April . Rodeo Masbateno Festival Location: Masbate City, Province of Masbate Details: The festival is celebrated every 9th to 14th of April. Its highlights are the bull riding competition, lassoing, 2-4 carambola, and bulldogging. This festival showcases the "cowboy skills" of the Masbatenos. Kangayedan Festival Location: Pagudpod, Province of Ilocos Norte Details: The festival is celebrated every 22nd to the 26th of April. Its highlight is the parade of cultural dances. This festival's objective is to safeguard the ecological beauty from destruction and also to renew the vow of the townspeople to replenish and protect the environment. Butanding Festival Location: Donsol, Province of Sorsogon Details: The festival is celeb...
Located in Rosario in the province of Cavite, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros is famously known as the location of the historic Tejeros Convention of 1897. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros Casa Hacienda de Tejeros history Casa Hacienda de Tejeros was originally built in the 17th century. The hacienda and its surrounding lands were formerly owned by the Augustinian Recollects. The estate was once the largest and grandest estate in the country. It once covered as much as 1,125 hectares with the casa occupying 4 hectares of it. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Rosario, Cavite The NHI Marker of the Casa Hacienda de Tejeros The name tejeros came from the Spanish name tejer , which means "to weave". It's due to the fact that the weaving industry is one of the major industries of the municipality of Rosario. Going back to its historical importance, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros played an important role in 1897 when it hosted the assembly that the new leaders of the revolution were elected. ...
Taga Atimonan din po ako. Diyan nakalibing ang lola at lolo ko. Bigla ko tuloy sila namiss. Maraming salamat sa pag feature ng Atimonan! God Bless po!
ReplyDeleteKabayan! Welcome po! Napakaganda ng Atimonan. dapat itong ipromote. =)
Delete