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 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. ...
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...
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum ( 広島平和記念資料館 ) is a museum dedicated to preserving the memories of Hiroshima City and also remembering the horrors of using atomic bombs. It is located inside Peace Memorial Park at 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan . Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum details In the wake of the devastating atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, the city embarked on a journey of remembrance, resilience, and peace-building. The seeds of this endeavor took root in the early 1950s, marking the beginning of the construction of what is now known as the Peace Memorial Exhibition Hall, the cornerstone of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum - Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture Fast forward to 1955, a pivotal year in Hiroshima's history, as it saw the promulgation of the " Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Ordinance ," laying the legal groundwork for the establishme...
Located in Barangay Limbon, Indang in the province of Cavite, the Bonifacio Shrine of Indang is one of the historical landmarks dedicated to the Father of the Philippine Revolution -Andres Bonifacio. Bonifacio Shrine of Indang Bonifacio Shrine in Indang History Bonifacio Shrine in Indang marks the location of the nipa hut where Andres Bonifacio was seized and captured by the soldiers of his political rival and fellow revolutionary Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. It was also here that Bonifacio was gravely injured after he was shot by an arresting soldier when he was being dragged to Indang town proper to be imprisoned. Bonifacio Shrine in Indang , Cavite This is how I look like pre-sneeze. The arrest of Bonifacio Philippine Historical Commission marker Presently, the historical nipa hut did not win against the tests of time. A small public park was constructed where the nipa hut was said to have once stood. The park features a statue of a seemingly very surprised And...
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...
Mizuma Park ( 水間公園 ) is a large and spacious park near the historic Mizumadera. It is located at 641-1 Mizuma, Kaizuka City in Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Mizuma Park Mizuma Park Details Mizuma Park is a serene escape nestled in the picturesque mountains behind Mizumadera in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture. This charming park is a favorite among locals seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's embrace. Mizuma Park - Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture At the park's southern edge, you'll discover a lush forest teeming with Kojii and Arakashi trees, alongside graceful Japanese oak and Quercus, creating a beautifully maintained woodland. This verdant oasis, spanning 5.4 hectares, has been cherished since its opening in 1976, showcasing the city's dedication to preserving its natural treasures. Mizuma Park map Perched on a hill, Mizuma Park offers more than just scenic views. Nearby, Mizumadera offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Accessible via Miz...
Kamay ni Hesus Shrine, or simply Kamay ni Hesus is a famous religious shrine and grotto. It is l ocated in Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban in the province of Quezon. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine Kamay ni Hesus Shrine History Also known as Via Dolorosa Grotto , Kamay ni Hesus Shrine was built under the initiative of Fr. Joseph "Joey" Faller in 2003. He is known as a gifted healing priest. Due to Fr. Faller's healing masses, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine became one of the country's most visited healing centers. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Lucban, Quezon Statues of saints can be seen in different areas of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine A replica of Pieta by Michelangelo Pilgrims look like ants from a distance. Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church Inside the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church One of the highlights of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is the 50-foot statue of Christ with his arm wide open found on the top of a hill. This statue is often referred to as the Risen Christ or Ascending ...
10 Things to Do in Kaizuka City Kaizuka ( 貝塚市 ) is a city in Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Kaizuka City was established on April 1, 1889, and became a city on October 1, 1943. The city is historically known for its production of wooden combs made from boxwood. The kanji used for its name kai ( 貝 ) means shellfish and zuka ( 塚 ) means mound. For those planning to visit the city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Kaizuka City : Kaizuka City manhole cover 1. Take a picture of the manhole cover of Kaizuka City . So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is common around the city. Kanda Shrine 2. Visit the Kanda Shrine ( 感田神社 ). It’s located near Kaizuka Station and can easily be reached on foot. It’s a popular shrine among locals so please make sure to keep the peace or the place. This shrine also celebrates the Taikodai Festival so if you time your visit in July then you might be able to witness it. You can also pay your respects and offer praye...
Mizumadera ( 水間寺 ) is the head temple of the Tendai sect, nestled on the Ryukokusan mountain. It is located at 638 Mizuma, Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Mizumadera Mizumadera details According to temple lore, Mizumadera was established by Gyoki during the Tenpyo era (729-749) at the behest of Emperor Shomu . Gyoki, responding to Emperor Shomu's vision of Kannon Bodhisattva during illness, embarked southwest guided by a swan, which mysteriously vanished, leaving only feathers in Izumi Province. Heading northeast, Gyoki encountered 16 children believed to be manifestations of Kannon Bodhisattva . Led by one of these children, Gyoki reached Mizuma, where two rivers converge. There, as he followed the child's guidance toward a waterfall, a dragon god appeared, presenting a statue of Holy Kannon. The site of this miraculous encounter is marked by a board inscribed with " Waterfall of the Appearance of St. Kannon Bodhisattva ." Mizumadera - Kaizuka City, Osaka...
Sapporo Grand Hotel ( 札幌グランドホテル ) is a historic 4-star hotel in the heart of Sapporo City. It is located at 4 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Sapporo Grand Hotel Sapporo Grand Hotel details Located in the heart of Sapporo's vibrant Chūō district, the Sapporo Grand Hotel is a testament to elegance and history. Dating back to 1928, the hotel's conception was sparked by Prince Chichibu's vision during a skiing excursion, recognizing the need for Western-style lodging in the city. Four years later, in 1934, its majestic doors swung open, marking the dawn of a new era in hospitality. Sapporo Grand Hotel - Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture Upon its inauguration, the Sapporo Grand Hotel soared as the city's tallest edifice, commanding attention with its imposing stature. Embraced by the Japanese Imperial Army as a strategic locale for military maneuvers in the 1930s, the hotel swiftly became an integral part of Sapporo's land...
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