The Sense Of Touch

The idea of the end of the world is always a sensitive matter. It will not fail to touch or scare you because it opens your mind to the possibility of all the horrifying scenarios to destroy humanity. And without a doubt, this has been one of the many themes of many movies. Although a very thin line separates comical-scary and mind-blowing-scary.

Perfect Sense (2011)

Directed by David Mackenzie

Written by Kim Fupz Aakeson

Two individuals fall in love when an unexplainable epidemic hit the world that takes away people's sensory perceptions.

As the pandemic robs people their senses which seemingly makes the end of the world closer, the film also follows the romance between the scientist Susan (Eva Green) and chef Michael (Ewan Mcgregor). Before the catastrophic outbreak, Susan and Michael were just about to get to know each other. Eventually a deeper relationship develops as more manifestations of the disease destroy the rest of the senses.

First sign was the strong feeling of grief and after a few minutes, your sense of smell would be gone; a lost of taste after feeling fright and uncontrollable hunger; the hearing after a mad outrage; and finally, a more ecstatic emotion of happiness and gratitude before losing the sense of sight.

Well, they spared the sense of touch. It was quite funny. I was not able to ignore my disbelief easily for the whole 90 minutes. I tried to take it all seriously and I did but still had a few laughs with some scenes. On a lighter note, Eva Green and Ewan McGregor were brilliant actors and they made such a beautiful couple. With the storyline tackling the importance of the senses, it gave both actors the opportunity to show their versatility. The romance did not matter much because the 'disease' was mainly the thing that glued them together. Nonetheless, how the epidemic affected their relationship was enough to sustain the message of the film about the importance of life.

The concept was a bit silly and comical at some point. But in a deeper level, it was awakening and intriguing. Realism was still at hand as people reacted and adapted when they lost their senses in way you know people will do. With the moving (sometimes distracting) narration and interesting transitions of photos and videos of people, you reflect and appreciate. Besides, the end of the world story whether apocalyptic or scientific, would always arouse emotions of sorts. So if you cannot make yourself look past the odd manifestations of the disease, you might not be able to last the 90-minute run. But Perfect Sense is intriguing enough and can actually pass as a good drama film.

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Synchronicity

Science-fiction movies are always intriguing. Imagine the universe altering the possibility and the coincidences of life.

Another Earth (2011)

A film by Mark Cahill

Co-written by Brit Marling

On the night of her celebration for getting accepted in MIT, Rhoda, curious about the discovery of the duplicate Earth, gets into a car crash. The tragic accident results to the death of John Burroughs' family. Four years after serving her time in prison, Rhoda poses as a housekeeper to make amends with John.

Another Earth was intriguing enough because of its premise of literally another earth. But it became even more interesting because of the brilliantly written intertwining lives of the protagonists. The steady, eerie ambiance further hooked the viewer's curiosity. The flow of the story was effortless from beginning to end. The film, however, focused more on the relationship of Rhoda and John, rather than its actual plot of another earth. But it was still just as captivating, with its breathtaking cinematography and wonderful musical score. I particularly enjoyed the musical saw scene performance (Natalia Paruz) and the story of the Russian cosmonaut.

Definitely an interesting piece from Cahill and Marling.  Rawness of indie films will always be much appreciated.

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Weeping For The Philippines

Major problems like poverty, the lack of education or the continuous downfall of the economy were still waiting. Relevant issues like the R.H. Bill or the Divorce Bill were still pending and taking forever to be debated by the senate over and over again. All these, once again were ignored. Meanwhile, the government chose to pay more attention in creating turmoil over the internet. And this one, oh, only took a blink of an eye to be implemented.

I admit that I do not have enough information on current events or news lately, but when the internet is threatened; I am all for it. Today, all I did was sat in front of my computer and tried my best in any way I can (in that context, I mean through the internet) to support the protest against the Cybercrime Law and protect my rights.

Republic Act No. 10175 or The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 aka Cybercrime Law happens to exist because of our supposedly trustworthy lawmakers. When you read those words joined together 'Cybercrime Prevention', you will instantly think it is one of the greatest amendments of today. It's like music to your ears because you know there are cybercrimes and we  know for a fact that we need new laws to prevent it. It covers address hacking, cracking, identity theft and spamming. It also indicates cybersex, pornography and (sucks, even) file-sharing. All these actually make sense, but then (purportedly) Sotto had to add online libel. Now, it appears as if the prevention act is just another front to hide the sole purpose of this law: silencing our voices. Clearly, Sotto is threatened by the power of the netizens after his plagiarism scandal. After shamelessly denying all accusations about his plagiarism act, he wants to take away the only medium we have to voice out our opinions in a way they can be easily heard.

I am no expert in law but I know our right for freedom of speech. The last time I checked we are living in a democratic society. However, the Cybercrime Law does not say so. It fails to benefit any Filipino citizens when freedom of expression and right to privacy are on the line. Only but the government profits from this. This is oppressive. And it is happening. Anything you post, tweet, share, comment or even like can be used against you. It has a punishment of a monstrously unjust 12-year imprisonment. Imagine twelve years in prison for stating a thought that the government did not happen to like. Or worse, simply liking a photo on Facebook about how pretty PNoy's bald head is.

This law's restrictions and parameters are not made clear enough. To our dismay, it seems as if it was not discussed thoroughly as it was passed and signed by Mister President and his senators in no time. Only two senators think there is something wrong with this law. For the love of God, what kind of senators do we actually have? What kind of President do we have? There are far more important problems the Philippine government is facing and they chose to focus on the internet right which should not be a problem at all in the first place.

Petitions and protests were not the only defiance happening against the law. Yesterday, every social media were flooded with outrage by Filipinos trying to protect their rights. I supported the bandwagon because I care. Because I have the right. Because it was our freedom we were talking about. It saddened and angered me to see that some people think so shallow and petty about the whole viral protest online. At least some people tried to participate and do something about it. Yet, the Cybercrime Law still took effect today, October 3rd. It was like a countdown to new year's. Only this time, it was a countdown to a new beginning of oppression.

The internet is powerful. Taking away the internet is taking away our freedom. Implementing this law is giving the administration more control over its people. I cannot stress enough how technology has changed our lives and given us easier access on everything. Which yes, may bring harm along the way, but everything has risks and dangers. BUT this law is not the answer. In a democratic country, suppressing freedom and silencing people will never be an answer. IT SHOULD BE AMENDED TO PROTECT, NOT TO OPPRESS. Internet has become a necessity. Of course, people will go berserk when you take ALL that away. I hope revisions will be done in the soonest possible time. Because this is like Martial Law -- Cyber Martial Law.

I admit this with shame, I voted for some of the senators who signed the said bill. Let us stop repeating these mistakes over again and vote for a truly deserving candidate. Let us not vote for the famous one. Let us vote for the one who makes a difference.

photo: in the city // Sony A300 (c)

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Post-Graduate Delirium

I like Lena Dunham. I like her television series on HBO, Girls. And I like pretty much all things she creates.

Tiny Furniture (2010)

A film by Lena Dunham

Aura (Lena Dunham) is a recent college graduate from a university in Ohio and comes home to live in Tribeca with her mother Siri (Laurie Simmons), a successful photographer and younger sister Nadine (Grace Dunham) who's looking for a good college; as she figures out what she's going to do with her life.

Aura is not exactly the character you will completely love nor totally hate. She has likable qualities and bad habits. She is a slacker, which I think is pretty normal, especially for a person her age. She cannot care less about her physical appearance. She is not afraid to try things out. She is real. Aura, pretty much, is a perfect representation of a character in between the post-graduate and pre-real world crisis. But way funnier.

I am currently going through this period. Hoping to get some ideas, motivation or any resolution, I decided to see this film. Unconsciously, I learned to love Aura. Well, because I can definitely relate to the character. I understand every inch of the slacker, confused and unmotivated side of her. Though I never got the answer I was hoping to get, the movie shed some light on my semi-soul searching phase. With that being said, I like to share a favorite scene.

*SPOILER ALERT* The film openly-ended with Aura and mom Siri in the dark lying in bed. Siri asked Aura to move the alarm clock farther because the ticking sound was disturbing her sleeping. So, Aura took the clock outside the room. Fade to black. Credits roll. And it was simply awakening.

Aura clearly needs time to figure out what she wants to do. And what better symbolism to use for time than time (by that, I meant the alarm clock) itself. Siri asking Aura to move away the alarm clock is like telling her to not worry about time and rush things. Because yes, not all of us have it all figured out even after college. The realism of the stages of undermining yourself; forcing yourself to figure out what to do; and simply getting by another day. The narrative is a little flat but it perfectly mirrored the lives of (some) just-got-out-of-college people. I loved Dunham's simple and smart humor and the few moments of poignancy.

Tiny Furniture won the 2010 Independent Spirit Awards best-narrative feature (thanks, google!), a genuinely much deserved award for a well-written screenplay.

I'm really mature but every time I come in to your room, I wanna sleep in your bed.

I'd like to put more quotes in there that do not involve sleeping or neediness but I can't. Instead, here are some of the favorite lines in Tiny Furniture on ticketforone.

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To Infinity And Beyond

If you'd check my blog, you would know how long I've anticipated this film. Just like any other fan of the novel, disappointment was set aside and more expectations arouse when I found out Chbosky would be doing the screenplay and directing himself. In addition, some of my favorite actors would be playing the roles of some of my most favorite fictional characters.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

A film by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks of Being a Wallflower, based on the novel of the same name by Stephen Chbosky, is about Charlie as he shares his adolescent stories through letters to an anonymous friend.

Logan Lerman showed such a remarkable performance as Charlie. His portrayal of the confused, honest, eccentric, but wanted-to-belong character made very believable. Ezra Miller was everything I thought Patrick would be. His charm and humor were a great combo. And to finally see Emma Watson with a pixie cut do, without her wand, and with a cute American accent was refreshing and different in a good way. With such strong lead performances, they instantly created classic legendary characters.

As for the plot, no doubt about its captivating power. Given the fact that there will always be parts of the book that won't be included in the film adaptation; Chbosky, as the author of both the novel and the screenplay, had successfully created a well-written masterpiece for both media. Though I did wish for more emphasis on the significance of the cultural references such as the books mentioned and the movie Rocky Horror Picture Show; or the deeper relationship of Charlie with his family (particularly with his sister and her boyfriend) and Bill; and the epistolary nature (which wasn't used as often as it should have been). I also felt like the plot twist was a little bit rushed (as well as the several ramifications) that it failed to achieve its expected effect to the viewers. Nonetheless, with the music, the actors, and some of the most important references remaining loyal to the book, the film still won my favor. Chboskly managed to relive and retain the novel's strength into the film. I awed as the magical moments were recreated as close as possible to what I have pictured. Lastly, the book's primary essence to raise awareness on issues of teenage alienation and adolescence was likewise given great importance in the movie.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a beautiful coming-of-age story that will forever live on. Of course, my favorite part was the 'tunnel scene'. Always have. Always will.

And in that moment, I swear we were infinite.

Meanwhile, the word infinite has become one of the coolest hipster words of today.

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A Visit to Central Perk

Television series are one of my favorite things. These past few months, I've been feeding myself with too much of it. Friends included. Yes, F.R.I.E.N.D.S.! Comedy series are such perfect stress relievers. Two seasons and already a Rachel-Ross fan.

Friends (1994-2004)
Created by David Crane, Marta Kauffman

Friends is an American sitcom aired on NBC from 1994 to 2004 about the lives of six young friends namely Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), Monica Geller (Courtney Cox), Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow), Joey Tribbiani (Matt Le Blanc), Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry) and Ross Geller (David Schwimmer) in Manhattan.

I don't think I need anymore introduction because we all know that F.R.I.E.N.D.S. had a good run. It was among the best and notable sitcoms in the 90s... even today.

The first season was mainly about getting to know the whole gang. The plot was good and very entertaining. I think the three most important things (I look for) a comedy sitcom need to have were a good narrative; unique but relatable characters; and of course, dialogues with solid humorous punch lines. And F.R.I.E.N.D.S. gave all that satisfyingly.

Given its entertaining story, what people truly adored about this show were the characters. Each one shares a different flavor that complements each other. And that almost never happens. You know that feeling, in every (most) sitcom, there will always be at least one character that you do not exactly hate or love but gives the kind of vibe of unnecessary existence? That if you cut them off, the show could carry on just fine or better, even? Anyway, Phoebe would probably be my most favorite character from the show. I enjoy her rather odd perceptions about life which I sometimes find satirical, but really hilarious. Monica as my least favorite, but her perks and quirks are quite funny too. While with his charm, femininity, and sarcasm, Chandler would be my most loved character. We all know every show needs a Joey; a pretty-hot-spoiled-sweetheart Rachel (but surprisingly lovable); and a Mr. Nice-Guy Ross we cannot help but have the feels for.

I'm loving Friends like I thought I would. And yes, I memorized the opening theme too.

(credits to owner of photo; video from youtube)

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Happy Camper

I have been wanting to see Avengers for I don't know how long now. Darn, was it worth the wait.

The Avengers (2012)

A film by Joss Whedon

A group of remarkable individuals with insanely great super powers and abilities are brought together by Nick Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D to save humanity from the hands of revengeful Loki.

For starters, who does not enjoy a film adaptation of comic books. Marvel films are seriously leveling up their game. Avengers is such a refreshing movie. From beginning to end, it successfully satisfied viewers' expectations. Narrative was smooth. Humor was always on point. And right amount of action was provided

Top it off with a great ensemble of cast. Very fitting, indeed. Robert Downey Jr. was sassy as hell. The new Hulk in the form of Mark Ruffalo was actually good. Colbie Smulders (How I Met Your Mother) was a revelation. The rest of the swoon-worthy actors were remarkable as well. But it was Tom Hiddleston who won my heart.

I do not know much about the comic world, but I will always love stories about superheroes. I believe inside all of us, is a kid who dreams of having superpowers or becoming a rock star.

Anyway, Avengers was truly an entertaining movie. Kudos to Whedon for giving  people justice one superhero movie at a time.

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Making Magic

I decided to reignite an old passion: reading manga/manwha/comic books. It's been quite a while since I last read one. So here's an entry about a short manwha with only 27 chapters called Annarasumanara. I needed it.

Mysteries will always be addictive. It would get you hooked in a minute. When you think of it, it's like magic. Playing with your mind and baffling your reality. There's a trick. There's a secret. From the first page until the last, it would not let you go. Even after knowing the secret, it sticks. It would make you ponder even more.

Annarasumanara (2010)
by Ha Il Kwon

Annarasumanara tells the story of Yoon Ah-Ee, a bright high school student who struggles with work, studies, and responsibilities with family, as she meets a mysterious recluse magician at the abandoned theme park.

The story easily intrigues the readers. With only a few dialogues, it still successfully conveys the truth and darkness of the real world. The three characters (magician; Ah-Ee; Il-Deung) also play important roles that help the readers reflect upon themselves further. Full of dream-like scenarios and ambiguity, Annarasumanara holds you captive of its world of dark wonders. But its strength also heavily relies on the powerful, and beautifully created illustrations. As you ponder about the narrative, you also take a moment to drown yourself in its art. Everything is just sewn perfectly together—making this one of the most unforgettable reads.

Do you believe in magic?

I also particularly enjoy that core message behind the illusion. The magic of the things you once believed in. The wants you once thought you could achieve. The dreams you once had. It reminds us to remember what it feels like to be a kid again. The kid who believes.

In life, there are so many significant things we tend to overlook as we reach a certain age. Yes, being an adult demands us to be more realistic as we take on more responsibilities (because yes the future is scary, and life can make you lose your sanity at times). But it's life. We cannot stop aging, but we can do so while we keep on learning.

(photo is not mine; credits to owner)

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The Christmas Angel

Without a doubt, Nicholas Sparks is one of the most prominent novelists of today. With his stories filled with morals about love and life, he easily wins and breaks hearts of readers and viewers.

His first novel I read was Safe Haven. It was different from what I expected. Different in a good way. What's not to like when you got romance and thriller rolled into one. But for a Sparks classic, here's one.

A Walk to Remember (2004)
by Nicholas Sparks

The novel, set in 1958, tells the story of Landon Carter, and how he falls for the daughter of the town's Minister, Jamie Sullivan, during his senior year in high school at Beaufort, North Carolina.

Jamie is the nicest person in their community, everyone says. She carries around the bible everywhere she goes; does a lot of charity work for the orphanage; and always wears the kindest smile. But she does not have many friends her age. While Landon is her exact opposite. He's rich, and friends with the popular kids in school. Yet, despite their differences, they fall in love.

You have to promise me you won't fall in love with me.

As I read the novel, I keep forgetting that Jamie was young, and no matter how calm she may appear, she is scared to die. There is probably nothing more depressing than knowing you can no longer be with the people you love. And that is Jamie's predicament that she will never escape.

The plot is your typical coming of age love story, with a predictable conclusion. But with moving events, and unforgettable characters, it still leaves a mark. Besides, stories involving deaths of any kind, especially of the protagonist, are always too painful. But I like the idea of how love make two people the best versions of themselves. Because it's supposed to.

Of course, what's the whole point of such novels anyway if it would not make you believe, even for a short period of time, that Landon Carters exist in this world. Let a girl dream.

(c)

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Going Sherlock Holmes

I feel really good whenever I am able to fix my abnormal sleeping routine, even if it doesn't last. Nothing does, anyway. But the good thing is, I get to read this wonderful book the whole day.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2004)
by Mark Haddon

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time tells the story of Christopher Boone, fifteen years (two months and three days) old, and already knows all the countries of the world and their capitals. He likes prime numbers and lives on patterns, rules and diagrams. He doesn't like anyone touching him or going to France. But he faces all his greatest fears when he embarks on a journey to find who murdered Wellington, his neighbor's dog.

Haddon shows us the world in the perspective of a person different from most: Christopher's--someone who has behavioral problems (but it is not mentioned in the novel what was his particular condition). At first, it is a bit perplexing, but as the story progresses, we better understand our hero. In this little detective-like tale, Haddon encapsulates the feelings and struggles of being different. We do not only sympathize, but we empathize as well as learn more about life from Christopher.

But in life you have to take lots of decisions, and if you don't take decisions, you would never do anything because you would spend all your time choosing between things you could do. So it is good to have a reason why you hate some things and you like others.

A remarkable, beautifully written novel with humor and pain. With a hero who never falters despite of his condition, it was truly eye-opening.

(c)

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St. Swithin's Day

A novel adapted into screenplay will always be crucial. There are many risks than doing an original screenplay (of course, there will be much more "critics" because of those who have read the novel). To convey those pages into a two-hour movie or less, and still make the audience feel the true essence of the book will never be an easy job. More often than not, adaptations disappoint the audience. Or simply, people are plain demanding. It is not surprising that most readers will not be satisfied. But when most viewers do, that might have to be the mark of how truly horrible the film was, because even those who haven't read the novel have so many criticisms already about the story (but hey, I believe people are not passive, and are smart enough to know that it is only the movie that failed and not the book; and that books and films are very different medium that should not be compared in the first place). I'd be biased if I didn't say there aren't any successful adaptations. Because there are. There are quite a few. It's just that this one didn't make the cut.

One Day (2011)

Directed by Lone Scherfig

Written by David Nicholls

Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Dexter (Jim Sturgess) spent the night of their college graduation together and agreed to meet on the fifteenth of July every year.

Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess were really beautiful. Acting-wise, these two looked good together on screen, and have given life to their characters in their own unique ways. But I was a little disturbed by Hathaway's English accent. I cringed a little every now and then.

As for the plot, it was very interesting. But I would not deny that I was not as pleased as I thought I would be about it. I was even more disappointed when I found out Nicholls actually wrote the screenplay. I was like, "C'mon, you're prettier than that" (quoting Bale on American Pscyho). Despite its structure, I feel like it lacked depth and emotion. I kept waiting for a more essential sub-plot, but there was nothing enough to suspend my disbelief, even after the plot twist was given. I did have this sudden urge to read the book to answer all these uncertainties in mind (for instance, I needed more stories to sympathize for the protagonists, and I kept asking questions of sorts on how they agreed on such terms). I think Nichols did it on purpose, for us viewers, to buy and read the book (kidding).

Nonetheless, it will still touch your heart. There were some moments to hold onto. Though, I suggest you the read the novel first to avoid disappointment (regarding the flow of the story). But oh, Paris was lovely. Au revoir.

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Can't Help Falling In Love

I found this film through one of the songs from it's official soundtrack, a modern rendition of Can't Help Falling In Love by the very talented, Ingrid Michaelson. Indeed, I cannot help but fall in love.

Like Crazy (2011)
A film by Drake Doremus

Anna (Felicity Jones), an English college student at L.A., falls deeply in love with Jacob (Anton Yelchin). As she balances her time to finish school, she and Jacob also struggle to be together as they face the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship.

Like Crazy, winner of the 2011 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize, was definitely worth seeing. With the vibe of independent cinema greatly present, it was not surprising that the narrative was simple and natural, but still fresh and entertaining. Doremus has successfully conveyed the pain of parting. Long shots, beautiful music, subjective realism and improvised dialogues. Likewise, Felicity Jones and Anton Yelchin's natural chemistry has further contributed to the film's rawness. It was simply lovely. 

Meantime, here's another lovely song from the movies' original motion picture soundtrack.

(photo not mine; video from youtube)

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In Need of Doctors

I've been wanting a pair of Doctor Martens for like forever. Luckily, with the power of the internet, a pair of air wair shoes could actually be purchased online. But the real good news is, a local franchise of the famous Doctor opened in December last year at The Fort in Taguig City. Now, it  is much easier to acquire these classic boots!

Check out the Manila store at The Plaza!

And meet the people behind this awesomeness (by that, I mean, the people who brought the Doctor in Manila), Borgy Manotoc and Andrew Garcia!

For more details, you can follow them on twitter or like them on Facebook. Better yet, visit the Doctor's official site.

Once again, in a couple of minutes, my want turned into a sudden need. These four pairs are my current obsession.

Photos courtesy of Status Mag Online and Doctor Martens

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The Lisbons

Sofia Coppola's film adaptation of the The Virgin Suicides was the first open door that introduced me to Jeffrey Eugenides. Since I saw the film, I could not stop wanting to know more about the Lisbon sisters.

The Virgin Suicides (2005)
by Jeffrey Eugenides

The novel tells the short lives of the five Lisbon sisters: Therese, Mary, Bonnie, Cecilia and Lux. Through various encounters with the girls, and collected personal belongings, a group of teenage boys fascinated and infatuated with the five narrates the mysterious tragic end.

*SPOILER ALERT* The gory deaths of the girls were tragic, surreal, and mysterious. Instantly, it was a story that would put a hold on you. The eerie feeling of wanting to know more about the perplexity of it all. But from beginning to end, we know what we are only getting. As readers, we are similar to the people in the book: only part of the neighborhood; an onlooker—ignorant and thirsty for answers. Yet, we continue to demand. And that what makes this book even more compelling. Likewise, it was an enlightening experience on issues of adolescent suicides.

Creatures so barely alive that their deaths came as little change.

Truly, Eugenides, has written a timeless masterpiece that will forever haunt the readers. Simultaneously satisfying the readers curiosity, and leaving them hanging. Just like the boys watching the Lisbon sisters, readers will always wonder, and will always try to patch up the missing pieces.

(c)

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Yuna's Magic

I first heard of Yuna through the song Her Favorite Song by XV feat. Raja (Prod. By The Awesome Sound). I luckily stumbled upon it on Tumblr, and I could not stop listening to it since. Naturally, I wanted to know whose majestic voice is playing in the chorus. And that's how I fell in love with Yuna.

The song used for the remix that led me to a beautiful discovery was Someone Out of Town. It's still on-repeat after several hours now. I can't help it if her music is too enchanting. Likewise, her golden voice is soothing, calming, and awakening—all at the same time. The melody, rhythm, and lyrics will take you to many celestial places.

Do yourself a favor: get to know this Malaysian singer-songwriter and listen to her soulful music.

(photo and video are not mine; credits to youtube, owner)

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The Visayas Adventure: Part II

The last stop for our Visayas adventure was Bohol. We rented a car and a driver to tour us around the province. He seemed like a nice person, and he actually gave us a worthwhile tour in a span of about five hours (because that's all the time we had. sad, but true).



We first had our scrumptious lunch in Riverwatch, one of the many floating restaurants in Loboc. The entertainment was good; the food, even better. And the view was just glorious.




With a full stomach, we were equipped enough to walk fast in order to visit more places. We next went to the Tarsier Conservation Area. It was my first time to see tarsiers. They looked nothing like the photos printed in school books. They were really adorable. Unlike in the past years, visitors were not allowed to touch any of the nocturnal creatures anymore. It was okay because they seemed so vulnerable. They should have never allowed people to touch the tarsiers in the first place, anyway. Just look at them! Too cute.




Of course, we would not miss the famous Chocolate Hills. I only saw it in books when I was a kid, and now, I actually got to seem them with my own two eyes. We had to climb over a hundred steps, though. Too much for my idle self. But if you would get to see this much beauty, I'd climb them stairs everyday.





We also got to see Baclayon Church and the Blood Compact Shrine. Both sites were too crowded with people, it's difficult to get a good photo. But, I did still enjoy the view.





Despite the Amazing Race-like adventure in Bohol, we truly had an amazing time. We took the ferry again back to Cebu, and spent the rest of the night at our hotel room.

The trip was a whirlwind adventure for all of us. But it was absolutely unforgettable. Not only did I get to visit and do lots of first times, I did it while spending real quality time with the family. Oh, the perks of being able to travel. If I could, I would love to travel all the time or even for a living.

PHOTOS: Sony A300

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The Visayas Adventure: Part I

My parents are not exactly the most adventurous kind of people, so we tend not to travel too far from the city. But this time, we did.

The family was finally able to visit my father's hometown (he was originally from Bantayan). I could not remember how long my father had been wanting to do this, so he was really excited. All of us were, anyway (it was my first time to ride a plane, for god's sake). We had one week and two days to visit my father's relatives and to explore the Visayas.

We first headed to Bacolod. My aunt (father's youngest sister), whom I met for the first time, gave us a tour in the city. We weren't able to do much though on the first night, we only paid their Municipal Hall a visit. Then, we had what felt like a seafood party dinner that night in 18th St, Palapala.



The next day, we went to visit the most famous mansion in the province, The Ruins, also known as the 'Taj Mahal' of Negros. It was such a beautiful place, despite the ruins (pun intended).




The mansion was built by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson in honor of his wife Maria Braga who passed away in an accident with their 11th child. It was said to be considered as the largest residential structure ever built then; with the finest furniture, chinaware, and decorative items. The mansion, however, was burnt down by then guerilla fighters during the early part of WWII to prevent the Japanese forces from utilizing it as their head quarters.



After its unfortunate fate, the beauty of the place remains. The intricate details in the structure are still visible. Its architecture as a whole is simply a magnificent sight.




Our last stop was the Pana-Ad Park and Stadium. We did not get the chance to visit the park though, because it was starting to get dark. And the stadium was huge. It would have been nice to watch a live game here.



The family then flew to Cebu. We only saw a few sites in the province because we did not have enough time. We did get to visit the Basilica del Santo Niño and the famous Magellan's Cross. Despite the short time we spent there, we made sure to eat good food in local restaurants. Among them was Casa Verde which served the best ribs.






Finally, we headed for the beach to Bantayan Island. The journey to get to Bantayan was really excruciating. The lack of sleep and the scorching heat even made it worse. We first met with my father's older sister and her family (whom, again, I met for the first time, except for one cousin who used to live with us) before we went to the beach. We enjoyed a day in Ogtong Cave Resort. The beach was really beautiful that the exhausting travel was worth the while.





There was also this tiny underground cave in the resort. Not sure if it was man-made or not, but it sure was one of the sights to see.



PHOTOS: Sony A300

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Hail to the North

My very first summer getaway for the year, and a celebratory travel with friends for surviving college was a tour in the North.



College friends and I celebrated our newly-acquired bachelor's degree in Ilocos. And it was one hell of a celebration. For starters, we did not get on a plane to get there. Yes, we traveled by land, people! That was the longest drive of my entire human existence: thirteen hours. I know, some would say, driving to Pagudpud would not take that long. But we only had one driver, and lots of stopovers. It's cool though because Pagudpud was breathtaking. Despite the unbearable heat, and my sore ass (because of sitting far too long), the beach was so worth it. I also tried snorkeling for the first time. It was really scary. Every time I look underwater with my goggles on, I felt like the sea would eat me alive. But fear took the back seat after realizing the beautiful creatures underwater. There was not much, though (I was expecting more). It was still a fun, unforgettable experience.




We also went to a cave about fifteen to twenty-minute boat ride away from the island. We decided to go because 1) we are humans who enjoy boat rides; 2) and we wanted adventure. Sadly, it turned out to be a pretty reckless decision. The rocks were too slippery, and most of us were only wearing flip flops. The walk to the actual cave was also quite scary because of the amount of seaweeds covering the area. It felt like the seaweeds were grappling our feet and legs as we walk through the knee-deep water. We kind of regret that part.



After an overnight stay at the beach, our official tour day began. First on the list was The Bangui Wind Farm in Ilocos Norte. It was even more beautiful in person. I bought a lot of fridge magnets, and bracelets as souvenirs there for family and friends.




We also got to see Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. Oh, beauty never ends.





It would not be a legitimate Ilocos getaway without having to visit the Great Ancestral Mansion of the Marcos. The mansion turned museum displayed lots of memorabilia of Ferdinand Marcos and his wife Imelda. A few walks away from the mansion was the mausoleum which housed the remains of the late president.





We also went to see Bantay Church and its bell tower. And for the first time, I also got to visit a zoo (it's another funny story, let's get to that some other time). Baluarte was filled with people. But, we definitely enjoyed our time there.



We then headed to Vigan. After we settled our room for the night, we went to roam the city. The place was really beautiful under the moonlit sky, and the orange and yellow lights. 'To visit Vigan', one thing off my bucket list.




The next morning, we started walking around town again: to sight-see and to buy lots of stuff. We also visited the Crisologo Museum. I felt like I could actually live in Vigan. Everything looked so unreal. Every corner, every house, every wall made consistent of old, rich and beautiful architecture. It (literally) felt like going back in time (without the colonizers and all that). The place was simply otherworldly.

The Ilocos tour went by too fast. Despite the four-day vacation, we only got to see the beauty of Ilocos for two days and a half because of the long travel time. Nonetheless, I was still grateful for this whole trip. Such a fun, memorable experience.

PHOTOS: Sony A300, Nikon D5000

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