PALAWAN "The Last Frontier"

Palawan is also known as the Last Frontier, it is the second largest province in the country, with an area of 1.5 million hectares and composed of 1,768 islands, the province has vast tracts of tropical rainforests and marine wilderness and home of the famous Subterranean River National Park a.k.a The World's Longest Underground River and nominated on the 7 Wonders of the World.


ITINERARY
Day 1, Sunday
09:30am – PPC Arrival
09:30am - 10:30am Hotel Check-in
10:30am - 11:30am Depart Pension House, Land travel to Sta. Lourdes wharf
11:30am - 05:00pm Honda Bay Island hopping w/ packed lunch
05:00pm – 06:00pm Depart Sta. Lourdes Wharf, Land travel to Pension House
06:00pm - 07:00pm Pension House Proper (rest, prepare, take a bath)
07:00pm – 08:00pm Dinner @ Kinabuch
08:00pm - 09:00pm Back to Pension House

Day 2, Monday
04:30am – 06:00am Prepare, Take a bath
06:00am - 09:00am Depart PPC downtown, Land travel to Sabang wharf
09:00am - 10:00pm Boat Ride - Sabang wharf to Underground River
10:00am - 11:00am Underground Tour (1.5km)
11:00am - 12:00nn Boat Ride - Underground River to Sabang wharf
12:00nn - 03:00pm Depart Sabang wharf, Land travel to PPC downtown
03:00pm – 04:00pm Late Lunch @ Balinsasayaw Restaurant
04:00pm – 05:00pm Stroll @ the Baywalk
05:00pm – 06:00pm Pension House Proper (rest, prepare, take a bath)
06:00pm - 07:00pm Dinner at Kalui
08:00pm - 09:00pm Back to Pension House

Day 3, Tuesday
06:00am – 07:00am Prepare, Take a bath
07:00am - 01:30pm City Tour w/ Lunch
01:30pm - 02:00pm Pension Room Check-out
02:00pm - 03:00pm Buy Pasalubong @ Tiangge Market
03:00pm – 04:00pm Back to Pension House (rest, prepare)
04:00pm – 04:30pm Depart Pension House to Airport
04:30pm – 05:00pm Airport check-in
06:20pm - ETA Manila

Fresh Palawan Lobster

DIY PPC EXPENSES
Airfare
PAL (MNL-PPC) - Php1,246
ZEST AIR (PPC-MNL) - Php788

Terminal Fees

(MNL to PPC): Php200 x 9pax = Php1800
(PPC to MNL): Php40 x 9pax = Php360

Accomodation
Lola Itang Pension House (30mins. from the airport): Php2250 for 9pax/night (normal season)= 1 barkadahan room
Transfer-in: free c/o Pension House
Transfer-out via Trike - Php20 x 9pax = Php180

City Tour

Rented Van: Php1200 for 9pax
Iwahig Penal Farm
Rancho Sta. Monica [Mitra's Ranch]
Baker's Hill
Crocodile Farm - entrance fee: Php40 x 9pax = Php360
Optional - Picture Taking Fee @ Crocs = Php30 per 3shots
Butterfly Garden - entrance fee: Php25 x 9pax = Php225

Hunda Bay Tour

Trike: Php1000 for 9pax (roundtrip: Lola Itang Pension House to Sta. Lourdes Wharf, Vice Versa)
Terminal Fee @ Honda Bay - Php9 x 9pax = Php81
Island Hopping Fee: Php125 x 9pax = Php1125
{4 islands: Pambato Reef (Php50), Snake (free), Starfish (Php50), Pandan (Php25)}
Optional – Cottage @ Pandan Island: Php150 per Nipa Hut
Boat: Php1500 (maximum of 6pax), additional 250 per excess pax = Php2250
Optional - Goggles & Snorkel Gear: Php100 x 9pax = Php900
- Shower Fee @ the Wharf: Php20 x 9pax = Php180

Underground River Tour

NOTE: Secure permit @ the 2nd floor of 7B Plates Resto
Address: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Office
No. 11 National Highway , Junction 1
Brgy. San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City 5300, Palawan , Philippines
Tel: 048-433-2409 Fax: 048-434-2509
Email: admin@puerto-undergroundriver.com or reservation@puerto-undergroundriver.com

Rented Van: Php3500 roundtrip for 9pax
Terminal Fee: Php40 x 9pax = Php360
Underground River Entrance: Php150 x 9pax (Adult) = Php1350
Optional – Camera Permits: Php30
Optional – Video Camera Permits: Php50
Boat to UR: Php1400 (2 boats for 9pax)
___________________________________________

SUMMARY OF EXPENSE excluding food
TOTAL (9pax)= Php39,557 or US$841.64
TOTAL (per pax) = Php4,395.22 or US$93.52
___________________________________________

Mary Immaculate parish Church

HOW TO GET THERE:
a.) Manila to PPC Palawan
-BY AIR: Major Airlines (PAL, Cebu Pacific, Zest Air, and Air Philippines) They usually offer promo airfares, travel time is 1 hour and 20mins.
-BY SEA: WG&A Superferry (tel: [632] 528-7000, (www.SuperFerry.com.ph) leaves every Friday afternoon from Manila, for a Saturday morning arrival in Coron and an evening arrival in Puerto Princesa (27 hours away). Return trips leave Sunday. (An option for those who want to visit coron too)
b.) PPC Palawan to Sabang (for Underground tour)
->>The land trip from Puerto Princesa to Sabang Beach takes between two to three hours depending on the road conditions and the time of year. The drive will take you through lush forest and isolated mountain communities.
>>Private and semi-private van transfer can be arranged for a fee
>>Public transportation is also available from the Puerto Princesa, Bus and Jeepney @ San Jose Terminal

SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GOING TO SABANG
a.) Estimated Time of Departure from Puerto Princesa to Sabang
via Jeepney - 7:00AM, 12:00NN, 2:00PM
via Bus - 10:00AM
b.) Estimated Time of Departure from Sabang to Puerto Princesa
via Jeepney - 7:00AM, 12:00NN, 2:00PM
via Bus - 10:00AM
___________________________________________

For Accomodation, Hunda Bay Tour, City and Underground River Tour. Please see below contact details:

Ms. Meggy - 0916-2333652
= Lola Itang Pension House (accomodation)

Mr. Danny - 0910-6661767
Mr. Allan - 0906-9129827
= Hunda Bay Tour, City Tour & Underground River Tour
___________________________________________

see also related links PALAWAN-EL NIDO

PUMPKIN "Jack-o-Lantern"

Wandering how did the pumpkin became a symbol for halloween??

People have been making jack o'lanterns at Halloween for centuries. The practice originated from an Irish myth about a man nicknamed "Stingy Jack." According to the story, Stingy Jack invited the Devil to have a drink with him. True to his name, Stingy Jack didn't want to pay for his drink, so he convinced the Devil to turn himself into a coin that Jack could use to buy their drinks. Once the Devil did so, Jack decided to keep the money and put it into his pocket next to a silver cross, which prevented the Devil from changing back into his original form. Jack eventually freed the Devil, under the condition that he would not bother Jack for one year and that, should Jack die, he would not claim his soul. The next year, Jack again tricked the Devil into climbing into a tree to pick a piece of fruit. While he was up in the tree, Jack carved a sign of the cross into the tree's bark so that the Devil could not come down until the Devil promised Jack not to bother him for ten more years.

Soon after, Jack died. As the legend goes, God would not allow such an unsavory figure into heaven. The Devil, upset by the trick Jack had played on him and keeping his word not to claim his soul, would not allow Jack into hell. He sent Jack off into the dark night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack put the coal into a carved-out turnip and has been roaming the Earth with ever since. The Irish began to refer to this ghostly figure as "Jack of the Lantern," and then, simply "Jack O'Lantern."

In Ireland and Scotland, people began to make their own versions of Jack's lanterns by carving scary faces into turnips or potatoes and placing them into windows or near doors to frighten away Stingy Jack and other wandering evil spirits. In England, large beets are used. Immigrants from these countries brought the jack o'lantern tradition with them when they came to the United States. They soon found that pumpkins, a fruit native to America, make perfect jack o'lanterns.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL!!

Gov't declares November 27 and 28 as regional holidays only in ARMM

Last October 30, 2009 the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said that the Malacañang Palace has declared November 27 and 28, 2009 (Eid'l Adha) as regional holidays in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by virtue of Proclamation No. 1808-A.

Labor and Employment Secretary Marianito D. Roque thus clarified that November 27 and 28, 2009 are not to be observed as holidays throughout the country.

Roque said that the new issuance effectively amended the earlier Proclamation No. 1808, issued earlier on April 21, 2009, which had declared November 28 and 29 this year as national holidays.

He advised the country's employers that as a result of Proclamation No. 1808-A, the pay rules for regular holidays will not apply during the said dates except in ARMM.

for more info click here

BOHOL (City of Friendship)

Bohol is the 10th largest island in the Philippines located on the Central Visayas region. Its Capital is Tagbilaran City wherein the airport is located.

= BOHOL SEA TOUR =

ALONA BEACH, Panglao Island

The main island is surrounded by about 73 smaller islands, the largest of which are Panglao Island facing Tagbilaran City in the southwest and Lapinig Island in the northeast, but the famous one is the Panglao Island where you can find easy-access establishment along the shore while communing the nature on its fine white sand beaches and it is generally associated with Alona Beach - a congested strip of resorts and dive centres on the far west side. While Alona doesn't necessarily afford much sunbathing privacy, it's a logical choice for those who demand tropical drinks at beachside bars after diving.

BALICASAG ISLAND

If you are fond on Aquamarine thing you can also try to visit Balicasag Island - the best diving site of Bohol. Dolphin watching is one of the activities that you can also try, i suggest you wake-up in the morning as early as possible and catch a boat that will bring you there, groups of dolphin can be seen near in the Island of Balicasag.

VIRGIN ISLAND

If you want to witness a beautiful low-tide in the offing better go to Virgin Island at around 11 o'clock in the morning and you'll be amazed on the breath-taking view that it can offer.

ANGELO JUMPSHOT, virgin island

= BOHOL COUNTRYSIDE TOUR =

Loboc-Loay River Cruise (Loboc) - View the majestic panorama of the nipa palm plantation along the Loboc - Loay River. Sometimes wild ducks are seen feeding and swimming in the river. While cruising buffet lunch will be served on board.


Hanging bridge – (Tigbao) , For a new spin on the term “Hanging out,” we check-out this spot, Cross the bridge and test our fun, fearless factor by allowing the bridge to sway and swing. Hold on tight though, and i advise do not try it if your heart is weak! and at the other side we got a chance to meet BUKO King and souvenir stores also awaits us in which we bought a factory price peanut kisses and kalamay sa bao.


Man Made Forest (Bilar) - When you enter this area, you feel like you are entering another world, one that is refreshing and you can taste and feel the fresh air around you. In 1960’s, a nationwide reforestation program was launched by the Philippine government. Mahogany seedlings were planted on a cleared area of 857 hectares in Bilar and Loboc towns. Fast track to the 21st century, the mahogany seeds planted almost half a century ago has grown into a breathtaking view and feel the coolness of the air and view the awesome display the thousands Mahogany Tree painstakingly planted by the local people.

Adding to the grandeur of the forest is the road Boholanos call the “tina-i sa manok” (chicken’s intestines) which refers to the winding road up the mountain of Loboc going towards Bilar. Leaving the populated barrios behind, the road up the mountain is steep and on one side, a deep ravine which are all densely forested. The steep and winding road plus the ravine does not hinder the local drivers. They maneuver the road with the agility and speed of experts; a feat acquired thru constant practice.
When you take the Bohol tour, make sure to tell your guide to stop here. When you make your stop here, you will feel the abrupt change in temperature especially during summer or hot season. The overhanging trees provide a cool breeze even during the summer season. This mountain area seldom sees the sunshine and most often than not, it rains here. Local folks attribute these to the presence of the dense forest.


Butterfly Garden (Maribojoc)– want to learn more about butterflies?? Well these one is for you because upon entering the garden the tour guide will assist you and tell you about the butterfly life cycle, and types of butterflies among others. They would let you hold of the butterflies, and it was fun!



Chocolate Hills (Carmen) - major tourist draw of the province w/c was considered one of Philippine's natural wonders. So feast your eyes on the breathtaking work of nature, one thousand two hundred sixty eight (1,268) haycock hills uniformly cone-shaped limestone hills were named that way because in the summer, the grass growing on the hills turn brown, making the landscape look like it had chocolate mounds all over.

Philippine Tarsier, Tarsius syrichta (Loboc) - See the smallest primate in the world, its name is derived from its elongated "tarsus" or anklebone. Known locally as the Maumag in Cebuano/Visayan, is an endangered tarsier species endemic to the Philippines. Were not allowed to hold them but we’d successfully kissed them and it doesn’t smell good..=D


Bohol Python (Antequera) - The female python, Prony, a 200-kilo reptile (and growing), is one of the pride of this town. She was found in a cemetery in 1996 and have grown abnormally to its massive size that experts say she is currently as big as a 40-year old python. Unfortunately, she was sleeping that time.


Baclayon Church (Baclayon) - Behold an old stone church along with its religious relics dating back to the early 16th century inside the museum. It is considered as the second oldest stone church in the Philippines.


Blood Compact Site (Tagbilaran City) - View the spot where the Spaniards and the Filipinos fostered friendly relations through blood. This is considered as the 1st Seed of the United Nations and 1st Treaty of Friendship between the brown and the white race.


Hinagdanan Cave (Panglao) – One of the famous cave in Bohol. It is a naturally lighted cavern with a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites. We really did not stay here much because there is a video & photo shooting on the other side of Lagoon, but we enjoy our souvenir shopping outside the cave because it is cheaper than other souvenir stores.


ITINERARY

Day 1, Sunday
08:00am - Meeting Time at Airport
09:25am - Boarding of Passenger ETD Manila to Tagbilaran
10:25am - ETA Tagbilaran Airport
11:00am – Lunch @ Loboc River Floating Resto
12:30pm – Hanging Bridge
01:30pm – Man-Made Forest
02:00pm – Butterfly Garden
02:30pm – Chocolate Hills
04:00pm – Tarsier Sanctuary
04:30pm – Bohol Python
05:00pm – Baclayon Church
05:30pm – Blood Compact
06:00pm – Check-in @ the Hotel
07:00pm – Rest, Prepare, Take a Bath
08:00pm – Dinner Time
10:00pm – Lights-off!

Day 2, Monday
04:30am – Wake-up
05:00am – Breakfast
06:00am – Dolphin Watching
07:30am – Balicasag Island (Snorkeling)
10:00am – Virgin Island (Beach Bumming)
12:00nn – Back to Hotel
01:00pm – Lunch Time
02:00pm – Prepare, Take a Bath, Rest
05:00pm – Alona Beach Bumming
08:30pm – Back to Hotel
09:30pm – Dinner Time
10:00pm – Rest, Prepare, Take a Bath
10:30pm – Lights-off!

Day 3, Tuesday
07:00am – Wake-up
08:00am – Breakfast
09:00am – Check-out @ the Hotel
09:30am – Hinagdangan Cave
10:00am – ETA Tagbilaran Airport
11:00am – due to delayed flight we decided to eat Lunch @ Tagbilaran Mall
12:00nn – Buy Handicraft Souvenirs @ Marcela Road
01:00pm – Boarding of Passenger
02:00pm – ETA Manila Domestic Airport


EXPENSE:

AIRPORT:
Airfare: Php1730 (Roundtrip)
Terminal Fee (Manila to Tagbilaran): Php200
Terminal Fee (Tagvilaran to Manila): Php20

HOTEL:
1 x Family Air-con Room: Php1550/night/good for 6pax
1 x Small Standard Back Air-con Room: Php650/night/good for 2pax
Total for 2 Nights = Php 550/pax

COUNTRYSIDE TOUR:
Rented Van: Php2500 divide by 8pax = Php312.50/pax
Loboc River Floating Resto: Php300/pax – Buffet Lunch
Hanging Bridge: Php10/pax
Butterfly Garden: Php20/pax
Chocolate Hills: Php50/pax
Tarsier Sanctuary & Bohol Python: (Donations Only)
Hinagdangan Cave: Php15/pax

PANGLAO TOUR:
Island Hopping Package Tour Fee: Php2000 divide by 8pax = Php250/pax
Snorkeling Gear: Php30/pax

FOOD:
Noodles, Salted Egg, Rice, Chicken Barbecue, Rice, Balot, Beer, Snacks = Php600/pax/good for 3days & 2nights

PASALUBONG:
>> Peanut Kisses: Php120/pack [16pcs.] x 2 = Php240
>> Souvenir Shirt:
Extra small colored t-shirt [size 14] = Php95
Medium colored t-shirt[size 20] = Php110
Baby size white t-shirt for 1yr. old [size 10] = Php75
>> Souvenir Handcrafts: Wallets
Small Size Php70/each
Large Size Php90/each
Tube Style Php5/each x 2 = Php10


For Hotel, Countryside Tour, & Panglao Tour. Please see below contact details:

Mr. Ranil Concha - 0919-3443365
= Rented Van (Countryside Tour)

Mr. Jonathan - 0926-4427830
= Island Hopping (Panglao Tour.. dolphin watching, balicasag island, virgin island)

Ms. Ping – 0918-2411763 or visit their website Citadel Alona Inn
= Budget Accomodation

CALIRAYA RECREATION CENTER

After a long month of preparation, at last we had a chance to spend our long weekend vacation on this place, my friends from work including their families went to the Asia’s First and Finest Christian Resort namely the Caliraya Re-creation Center. Though its only overnight but it was all worth it.

CALIRAYA LAKE

Caliraya Re-creation Center is located at Barangay Lewin, Lumban Laguna, 15 Km-long man-made lake owned by the National Power Corporation and used for hydroelectric power generation. It is 7.6 hectares of lush greenery that offers fun-filled activities that will surely provide fond memories for both learning institutions and family gatherings. The lake is about 290 m above the sea leavel and the Caliraya Re-creation center property rises with a gradual slope of 30 m higher and commands a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding mountains such as Mr. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal and Mt. Makiling.

DUPLEX ROOM

It was fascinating on how they were able to create a recreation center on top of a mountain and to create a lake to give a very serene ambiance. To reach the resort everybody must ride a ferryboat w/c will take for about 5minutes.As we reach the resort, there is a jeep that will brought us to the Dining area of the resort, we are given a sumptuous dinner meal (buffet) and after we ate we went to our duplex room located near at the lake. Some of my friends are too excited to try all the activities that the resort can offer, since we arrived late at night at the resort, some of us decided to try the night swimming w/c is open until 11pm only, water is not bad because it was warm w/c makes us very relaxing.

The next day we woke up as early as we want too, in order for us to do all the remaining activities. As I open the door, it was nice to see the lake in front of our room, cool breeze, greenery surroundings, sunshine, bird sound, enjoy the sun and wind, really an ideal place for winding down after all that hectic and fast-pace life in the city.

MARTI on SLIDE PINOY

CAROL on WALL CLIMBING

First activities that we have tried is the Pinoy Slide, and it is quite fun and surely the kids will love it. After these, we rode a jeep going to the dining area of the resort for our breakfast and again it was a buffet Pinoy & American style breakfast. After taking some rest on our heavy breakfast, it’s time to continue and enjoy the fun! fun! activities.

NOEL & JOEY on JETSKI

MARICEL on FLY PINOY

We pay all the activities at the registration area such as Jetski, Wall Climbing, Rapelling, Fly Pinoy (zipline version of the resort), unfortunately as much as we want to try the wakeboard they are requiring us to hire a speedboat w/c is very expensive, we also want to try the Airsoft but it was not available that time. We also enjoyed the pool & mudslide. Overall, it was fun.

CAROL on SWIMMING POOL

NOEL & JOEY on MUDSLIDE

Indeed, it is a recreation center. So if you want to relax and or spend quality time with your family and friends, try the Caliraya Re-creation Center.


HOW TO GET THERE:

From Manila:
· Take South Expressway
· Take Calamba Exit
· Calamba Crossing, turn right
· Straight ahead using the highway passing towns of Los Banos, Bay, Victoria, Pila, Sta Cruz and Pagsanjan
· After passing Pagsanjan Archway, you will see a T Road (atop is a Catholic Church)
· On this T-Road, turn left to Lumban, then you pass a bridge
· Approaching Barangay Hall, turn left going to Paete (but you will not reach Paete)
· Just few meters ahead, you will see a Y Road
· On this Y Road, take right wing, a road going up hill (you will see Caliraya Re-Creation Center and Resort Sign)
· Straight ahead, you will see Caliraya Re-Creation Center and Resort Parking Space
· Upon reaching this parking space, a guard (not in uniform) will assist you to cross the lake

From Antipolo
· Through Teresa, then Morong, you will see a T road
· On the T road, turn left
· Straight ahead, approaching Tanay is a Y road
· On this Y road take left wing (the highway)
· Straight ahead, then in Pililia you will see a Y road
· On this Y Road take left wing (the highway)
· Straight ahead, using the highway passing towns of Siniloan, Pangil, Pakil, Paete
· Few meters from Kalayaan Power Plant, you will see an inverted Y road (this is a Y road from Lumban)
· On this inverted Y road, take left wing, a road going up hill (you will see Caliraya sign)
· Straight ahead, you will see Caliraya Re-Creation Center and Resort Parking Space
· Upon reaching this parking space, a guard (not in uniform) will assist you in crossing the lake


ITINERARY

Day 1, Saturday
04:30pm – Assembly time @ Cubao Macro
05:30pm – ETD Manila to Laguna
08:30pm - ETA Caliraya Lake; Ferryboat Ride to the Resort
08:40pm – ETA Caliraya Recreation Center
09:00pm – Late Dinner
10:00pm – Night Swimming
11:00pm – Rest, Take a bath
12:00mn – Lights-off

Day 2, Sunday
05:30am – Wake-up Call
06:00am – Slide Pinoy
07:00am - Breakfast
08:00am – Jetski @ the Lake
09:00am – Wall Climbing & Rappelling
10:30am - Swimming
11:00am – Mud Slide
12:00nn – Lunch
01:00pm – Fly Pinoy
02:00pm – Rest, Prepare, Take a bath
03:00pm – ETD Caliraya Recreation Center: Ferryboat Ride to the Resort
03:10pm – ETD Caliraya Lake
06:10pm – ETA Manila

EXPENSE:

Rented Van: Php3500/15pax/roundtrip

For Hotel /Duplex Room Inclusions: Php 1600/pax
1. Entrance fee.
2. Full board buffet style meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
3. Free flowing coffee & hot tea during meal time.
4. Overnight accommodation (aircon room with cable TV).
5. Free use of swimming pool, slip n slide, earthball, monster basketball and obstacle course.
6. Free use of slide pinoy & hanging bridge.
7. Ferry boat ride to and from the resort (24 hours service)
8. Jeepney transfer inside the resort


For Accomodation & Tour, Please see below contact details:

Ms. Rossel - 0919-6545925 or visit their website HERE
= Accomdation & Tour

DOMESTIC AIRFARE, buy one take one @ ZEST AIRWAYS

Hurry!

Want to relax this rainy season on your dream domestic destination??.. ZEST AIRWAYS buy one, take one promo fare is up!.. Book now!

AUGUST 5, 2009 SPECIAL NON-WORKING HOLIDAY

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has decided to cut short her trip in the United States and has declared Wednesday, August 5, 2009 as a special nationwide non-working holiday to give the entire Filipino nation proper time and opportunity to grieve and honor the late former President Corazon Aquino.

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said former President Aquino, who succumbed to colon cancer early Saturday in Manila, will be laid to rest on August 5.

Remonde read the proclamation which the President signed Saturday (Sunday in Manila) during a media interaction with Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel here.

Former President CORAZON AQUINO

“I, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo do hereby declare August 5, 2009, Wednesday, to be a special non-working holiday nationwide in honor of the late former President Corazon C. Aquino,” Remonde quoted the President in her proclamation.

Under the Proclamation, the President said it is but proper to give the entire nation “the opportunity to honor and show their respect, appreciation and gratitude to the beloved former President in their own respective ways.”

Before leaving Washington, D.C. the other night, the President also issued Presidential Proclamation No. 1850 declaring a 10-day period of national mourning from August 1-10.

During the period, Ermita said the Philippine flag in all government offices nationwide will be flown at half mast.

In due respect to the death of former President Aquino, Ermita said President Arroyo also decided to cut short her itinerary to meet with investors and overseas Filipinos in Chicago and Guam.

“The President made the decision to cut short her trip so that we will be there in time for the day of interment of former President Aquino,” he said.

Ermita said the President and her official party will leave here tomorrow, Sunday (Monday in Manila), and will arrive early morning of August 5 in time for a chance to visit the remains of former President Aquino.

Upon their arrival, Ermita said a mass would be held in Malacanang in honor of former President Aquino.

The Aquino family, according to Ermita, has decided to forego the offer of state honors in Malacañang and “politely wished that the interment of President Aquino be as simple as much as possible.”

At the start of her speech during the meeting with the Filipino community at the Sheraton Hotel in Newark on Saturday night, the President also offered a minute of silence in honor of former President Aquino.

SABANG & EL NIDO TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE

PPC-SABANG (for Underground Tour)TRANSPO SCHED

>>You can get your UR Permit at the City, 2nd Floor of 7B Plates Resto,

>>The land trip from Puerto Princesa to Sabang Beach takes between two to three hours depending on the road conditions and the time of year. The drive will take you through lush forest and isolated mountain communities.

>>Private and semi-private van transfer can be arranged for a fee
>>Public transportation is also available from the Puerto Princesa, Bus and Jeepney @ San Jose Terminal

SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GOING TO SABANG
a.) Estimated Time of Departure from Puerto Princesa to Sabang
via Jeepney - 7:00AM, 12:00NN, 2:00PM
via Bus - 10:00AM
b.) Estimated Time of Departure from Sabang to Puerto Princesa
via Jeepney - 7:00AM, 12:00NN, 2:00PM
via Bus - 10:00AM


PPC-EL NIDO TRANSPO SCHED

>>The land trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido takes between eight to nine hours depending on the road conditions and the time of year. The drive will take you through lush forest and isolated mountain communities.

BY LAND
>>Private and semi-private van transfer can be arranged for a fee.
CAR TO SELF-DRIVE
- At Hibicus Garden Inn in Puerto Princesa they rent a car to self drive one way to El Nido
- In El Nido it’s Available at Pitstop

>>Public transportation is also available from the Puerto Princesa, Bus or Shuttle Van @ San Jose Terminal.

SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GOING TO EL NIDO
a.) Estimated Time of Departure from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
via Eulen Joy Bus
>> 05:00AM, 07:00 AM, 09:00AM , 10:00AM (reservation required)
via Sweety Bus
>> 05:00AM, 07:00 AM, 09:00AM, 11:00AM (reservation required)
via Fort Wally Shuttle Van / Savior Shuttle Van
>> 7:00AM, 11:00AM (reservation required)
b.) Estimated Time of Departure from El Nido to Puerto Princesa
via Sweety Bus
>> 05:00AM, 08:30AM (departure may change)
via Fort Wally Shuttle Van / Savior Shuttle Van
>> 7:00AM (reservation required)


OTHER OPTION: (MANILA to EL NIDO)

BY AIR
a. ITI Plane - Island Transvoyager Inc. ( It offers daily direct flight to El Nido and is the official carrier of the guests of El Nido Resorts ( Lagen Resort and Miniloc Resorts). The resorts’ guests are prioritized but available seats are open for other passengers as long as they book ahead of time. (one way flight is around 8000 pesos)
>> Address: ITI Hangar No. 5-03-127, Andrews Avenue (near PAL Medical Center) Domestic Airport, Pasay City +63+(2)+ 8515674, +63+(2)+ 8515667, +63+(2)+ 8545220
info@islandtransvoyager.com

b. Major Airlines (PAL, Cebu Pacific, Zest Air, and Air Philippines, SEAIR) The cheapest way to do it is to fly to Puerto Princesa which usually offer promo airfares and then go to El Nido either by land, air or sea. (one way flight ranges from 1000 - 4000 pesos)


BY SEA
a. WG&A Superferry (tel: [632] 528-7000, (www.SuperFerry.com.ph) leaves every Friday afternoon from Manila, for a Saturday morning arrival in Coron and an evening arrival in Puerto Princesa (27 hours away). Return trips leave Sunday. (An option for those who want to visit coron too)

b. San Nicholas Shipping Lines (phone: +63(0)9182161764) and Atienza Shipping Lines (phone: +63(0)9274066036) make trips 2-3 times a week for around P1,200.00. Trip takes 30 hours

PUERTO PRINCESA AND EL NIDO ITINERARY

Do-it-Yourself ITINERARY
Day 1, Saturday
09:30AM - ETA Puerto Princesa
10:00AM - Check-in @ the Transient House
11:30AM – Brunch (any known Resto in PPC)
01:00PM – City Tour (Iwahig Penal Farm, Crocodile Farm, Rancho Sta. Monica, and the famous Baker's Hill)
06:00PM - Back to Transient House

Day 2, Sunday
06:00AM – ETD to Sabang
09:30AM – Start of Underground River Tour
11:00AM – End of UR Tour
12:00NN – Lunch @ Sabang Beach
02:00PM – Leave Sabang to PPC
05:00PM – Back to Transient House

Day 3, Monday
06:00AM – ETD to Sta. Lourdes Wharf
07:30AM – Hunda Bay Tour (Pambato Reef, Snake, Starfish, Pandan)
12:00NN – Lunch (bring your own)
04:00PM – End of Tour
05:30PM – Back to Transient House

Day 4, Tuesday
07:00AM - leave Puerto Princesa to El nido via VAN
03:00PM - ETA El Nido
04:00PM - Check-in @ transient house (1st night at El Nido)

Day 5, Wednesday
09:00AM - Island Hopping (small lagoon & big lagoon)
12:00NN – Lunch
04:00PM - End of island tour
05:00PM - Back to Transient House (2nd night @ El Nido)

Day 6, Thursday
07:00AM - leave El Nido to Puerto Princesa
03:00PM - ETA Puerto Princesa
05:00PM - leave Puerto Princesa to Manila
06:20PM – ETA Manila


E X P E N S E

Room Accomodation @ PPC
>>> php 2,250/ 9pax/night (based on barkadahan room)
Room Accomodation @ El Nido
>>> php400/pax/night (based on double sharing)

CITY TOUR
Trike (5 seaters): php600/5pax/roundtrip
Crocodile Farm Entrance Fee: php40/pax

UNDERGROUND TOUR
Trike (5 seaters)from Tarnsient House to San Jose Terminal – php150/5pax/one way
option 1: If Van Rental: PPC to Sabang - php2,900/van rental
option 2: If Commute:
Jeep/Bus from San Jose Terminal to Sabang - php 125/pax/one way
>> Boat Rental: php700 per boat / max. of 6pax) and additional php250 per extra pax
Camera Permits: optional: (php50 - video cam and php30 - digicam)
Entrance Fee: php150/pax

HUNDA BAY TOUR
Trike (5 seaters): php500/5pax - roundtrip
Island Hopping Fee: php125/pax (4 Islands: Pambato Reef, Snake, Starfish, Pandan)
Boat Rental Fee: php1,300/6pax

EL NIDO TOUR
option 1: Van Ride from PPC to El Nido - php600/pax/one way
option 2: Bus Ride from PPC to El Nido - php300/pax/one way
Environmental Fee – php200/pax
El Nido Sample Tours:
TOUR A - Snorkel tour to two lagoons on Miniloc Island, Simisu Island, and 7 Commando beach. php750/pax
TOUR B - Tour to Lagen Island, Cudugnon Cave, Snake Island, Cathedral Cave. php800/pax
TOUR C- Snorkel tour around Matinloc Island and Tapiutan Island, with a visit to the Secret Beach. php900/pax

KOTA KINABALU for as low as P499 @ CEBU PACIFIC AIR

Waiting is over!

If your planning to go to Kota Kinabalu.. Cebu Pacific has its lowest promo fare, Sale period will start on July 29 up to July 31, 2009, Travel period is from September 1 until November 30, 2009.

2010 OFFICIAL PHILIPPINE HOLIDAYS

Plan your 2010 trips ahead with the Malacañang announcement of holidays for next year.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed Proclamation 1841 last Tuesday, declaring regular holidays, special non-working holidays, and special school holidays for 2010. The proclamation is in line with Republic Act 9492, which provides that all non-religious holidays be moved to the nearest Monday.

Regular holidays covered by RA 9492 next year are:

June 14 (Monday nearest June 12) – Independence Day
November 29 (Monday nearest November 30) – Bonifacio Day
December 27 (Monday nearest December 30) – Rizal Day
Other regular holidays include:

January 1 – New Year’s Day
April 1 – Maundy Thursday
April 2 – Good Friday
April 9 – Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1 – Labor Day
August 30 – National Heroes’ Day
December 25 – Christmas Day
Special non-working holidays next year include:

August 23 (Monday nearest August 21) – Ninoy Aquino Day
November 1 – All Saints’ Day
December 31 – Last Day of the Year
Expect also a 4-day Christmas weekend next year as the President declared Christmas eve on December 24 (Friday) as an additional non-working holiday, and December 27 (Monday nearest Rizal Day on December 30) as a regular holiday.

Aside from these, the President also declared February 22 (Monday nearest February 25), EDSA Revolution anniversary next year as a special school holiday.

Meanwhile, the Palace said proclamations declaring national holidays for the observance of the end of Ramadan (Eid’l Fitr) and the Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid’l Adha) shall be issued after the approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined in accordance with the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or upon Islamic astronomical calculations, whichever is possible or convenient. The Office on Muslim Affairs will inform the Office of the President on which days the holidays shall fall.

"HAPPY TO LIVE. GLAD TO GIVE. Season 1"

June 28, 2009 is a very fullfilling day for MECAN and with our fellow trippers who are first timer on trekking... having the opportunity to enjoy the nature while helping others is a worth weekend to spend.

On our 4X4 WHEEL going to Aeta Village

Sitio Magkupya, is an Aeta Village located before the drop-off point of Mt. Pinatubo and composed of 16 families.

LEFT SIDE OF THE VILLAGE

After our descent from the crater we went there directly to give clothes and foods. Aetas are excited to see all things that we brought for them, but while we are preparing to distribute it, Aetas started to sing a Happy Birthday song for Anne..(unforgettable birthday event fo Anne =D)and to have a peaceful distribution of goods, we asked help on the in-charge chairman of the said community.. a very helpful man..;-) ..


We joined the Old Lady & Old Man on their cultural dance.. and it was fun!.. I remember the Old Lady said " Sa susunod dala kayo ng Guitara para mas maganda ang pag-sayaw... magaling ako mag-guitara"... (nice idea! next time we will bring that!)

Aeta Kids are very happy on their candies and lollipops.. Their smile give us a very heart-warming effect.

AETA KIDS

What more can i ask for??? Nothing =D coz these kind of trip is one of the best trip i ever had. I felt that it was a challenge for me and to my colleagues to continually do these kind of mission.. not just to the Aetas but also to those people who live in the remote areas.

US WITH THE AETAS

Looking forward to be in these kind of event AGAIN!

MT. PINATUBO DAY TREK

Mount Pinatubo is an award-winning ecotourism attraction.

The trek is ranked intermediate and is surrounded by towering cliffs made of ash and sand that has formed rugged valleys and hills, punctuated by massive rock faces resting at impossible angles.



After almost two decades, the landscape has evolved and green foliage has taken to the fertile volcanic soil.

The gaping crater caused by the eruption is now home to a massive aquamarine lake that’s safe to swim in.

..the sight of its unnaturally blue-green water, its numerous smoking vents and an overwhelming smell of sulphur is enough to convince anyone of the now-quiet power that lies below.

ITINERARY
01:30am - Meeting Time at the Bus Terminal
02:00am - Boarding of Passenger ETD Manila to Capas Tarlac
04:00am - ETA Capas Tarlac junction
05:00am - Sta. Juliana Registraton, Rest & Prepare
05:30am - 4 x 4 via skyway ride to drop-off point
07:00am - Trek from drop-off point to crater
09:00am - Arrival at the crater, (free time)
11:30am - Lunch
01:00pm - Departure from crater to drop-off point
02:30pm - Arrival at drop-off point, 4 x 4 ride going to Aeta Community, Distribution of donations
03:30pm - 4 x 4 via skyway ride back to Sta. Juliana Tourism Office
05:00pm - Arrival at Sta. Juliana Tourism Office, (Rest, Prepare, Take a Bath)
06:00pm - Leave Sta. Juliana to Capas Tarlac Junction
07:30pm - ETD Capas Tarlac to Manila
09:30pm - ETA Manila

REQUIRED FEE
Bus Fare: Php129/person (one way) via Dagupan Bus Cubao Station
Conservation/Environmental Fee: Php50/person
Guide Fee: Php500 (for one to five persons)
Toll Fee Skyway: Php500/4x4 Wheeldrive
4 x 4 Wheel Drive: Sta. Juliana to Pinatubo drop-off point [roundtrip]: Php2,500 (for one to five persons)
Trike: Capas Junction to Sta. Juliana - Roundtrip Php300 (3pax)

OPTIONAL FEE
4 x 4 Wheel Drive: Capas Junction to Sta. Juliana [roundtrip]: Php 1,000 (for one to five persons)
Shower Fee: Php20/person @ Barangay Hall; Php100/person @ Mt. Pinatubo Town Spa
Boat Riding @ the Crater: 350/person (30mins)
Massage/Volcanic Ash/Mudpack: Php500/peron/category
Tent Rental: Php 100

Try to check also my blog about Mt. Pinatubo Sitio Magkupya Aeta Village

For Tour Arrangement, boat, tent and guide, Please see below contact details

Wendell Mercado - President 4wheel Drive Association
= 0919-6084313

Teody Melegrito - Tricycle Owner Capas Junction
= 0920-3193216

Pinatubo Spa Town - arrangement of guide, boat, tent
= 0928-3410402 or (045) 493-0031

ANAWANGIN COVE & CAPONES ISLAND

THE ANAWANGIN BEACH

Anawangin Cove is a crescent shaped cove with a pristine white sand beach. What makes the place unique is the unusual riddle of tall pine trees flourishing round its vicinity. There are no roads leading to Anawangin. It is only accessible by a 30 minute boat ride from Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales or by a six-hour trek through hot, open trails thru the Pundaquit range. The cove's relative isolation has kept it free from development - as of this writing, there are no resorts on this sparkling piece of natural beauty, save for a few huts and deep wells.

PINE FOREST

Just behind the beach is the pine forest and a marsh, where one can find natural springs feeding to the sea. The area is home to a number of bird species.

FYI:
>>> The sand in Anawangin Cove is mainly Mt. Pinatubo lahar. Some Sand samples is very similar indeed to the lahar that can be found in Porac and Mabalacat on the other side of Mt. Pinatubo.

SMALL LAKE SURROUNDED BY THE AGOHO (PINE TREES)

>>> The pine trees, (actually Agoho trees) did not exist in the area before the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Looks like the ash fall somehow brought with it Agoho seeds as well and they grew into the forest we see at Anawangin today.

THE CAPONES ISLAND

Capones Island is famous for its rocky shore white sand beaches and known for having an Old-Spanish Light House w/c is located at the left-end top hill of the island.

ROCKY SHORE

VERANDA OF THE SPANISH LIGHT HOUSE

You need to trek for about an hour on a rocky shore and it was very tiring to get there but a worth panoramic view is waiting for you on the top of the light house... it has a picturesque beautiful clear turquoise waters scene and you'll be amaze how did they built the light house on these island.

OUR DESCEND

ABANDONED BUILDING ALONG THE WAY


ITINERARY

Day 0, Friday May 1
10:30 PM Meeting Time at the Bus Terminal (via Air-conditioned Bus = 271/head)
11:30 PM Boarding of Passengers ETD Manila to San Antonio, Zambales

Day 1, Saturday May 2
03:00 AM ETA San Antonio, Zambales
03:30 AM ETA Pundaquit (prepare)
04:00 AM ETA Start of Trekking (tourist guide fee =600/group)
08:30 AM Anawangin Cove Proper (environmental fee = 100/ head)
09:00 AM Breakfast, Camping, Lunch, Beach Bumming
05:00 PM Prepare/ Take a Bath
07:00 PM Dinner / Bonfire Night / Star-Gazing

Day 2, Sunday May 3
06:00 AM Wake Up
07:00 AM Breakfast
08:00 AM Free time
11:00 AM ETD Anawangin to Capones Island (via boat roundtrip = 200/head)
12:00 NN ETA Capones Island
12:10 PM Start of Trekking to the Old Spanish Lighthouse
01:30 PM ETA Old Spanish Lighthouse/Free time
03:00 PM ETD Capones Island to Pundaquit
03:30 PM ETA Pundaquit (Rest,Prepare,Take a Bath)
04:00 PM ETD Pundaquit to San Antonio (via tricycle = 25/head)
04:10 PM ETA San Antonio to Olangapo (via Ordinary Bus = 41/head)
04:30 PM ETD Olangapo to Manila (via Air-conditioned Bus = 220/head)
08:00 PM ETA Manila

EXPENSE

TRANSPORTATION:
Manila - San Antonio: Php271/pax via Victory Liner
San Antonio - Pundaquit: 25/pax
-------------------------------------------------
Pundaquit - San Antonio: 25/pax
San Antonio - Olangapo: Php41/pax via Ordinary Bus
Olangapo - Manila: Php220/pax via Victory Liner

GUIDE FEE:
Tour Guide: Php600 (good for 9pax)

ENVIRONMENTAL FEE:
Anawangin Environmental Fee: Php100/pax

BOAT FEE: Php 1200 (good for 5pax)
Anawangin - Capones Island - Pundaquit

For Island Trip Arrangement, boats, tents and guides, Please see below contact details

Mang Arman - 09204211633
= Php 1,200 per boat w/ capones island / good for 5pax
= Guide fee: Php 600
= Tricycle fare: 30/pax

Mang Florante - 09108053388
= Php 1,500 per boat w/ capones island / good for 5pax
= Guide fee: Php 600
= Tricycle fare: 100/tricycle/good for 3pax

Mang Randy - 09093120345
= Php 1,500 per boat w/ capones island / good for 5pax
= Guide fee: Php 600
= Tricycle fare: 35/pax

Mang Amboy - 092977664490 & Mang Mike Bactad - 09283405136
= Php 1,500 per boat w/ capones island w/ camara island/ good for 5pax
= Guide fee: Php 500
= Tricycle fare: 25/pax