Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Kaibigan Movie Holds Successful Premiere

By on December 6, 2019

Jesse and Christian Perkins also known as the Perkins twins received support from celebrity friends, family and fans at the Red Carpet Premiere of their movie, Kaibigan.  Hosted by by Rico Robles, the Red Carpet Premiere was held at SM Megamall cinema December 3, 2019, Tuesday. Weather may not have been good but despite the bad weather, the Red Carpet Premiere was a huge success.

Some of the cast were on red carpet for the screening and premiere night of the Perkinspiredflix original film. Stephen Andrew Baldwin, an American actor, producer, director, author. He is the father of model Hailey Baldwin, wife of singer Justin Bieber) plays a significant role in this movie, ‘’Kaibigan’’ Jean Garcia cast as the role of Beth Anderson, Mocha Uson as a reporter in this movie, Victor Basa and many more….

Kaibigan is an inspirational movie starring Filipino-American Jesse and Christian Perkins (flaternal twins) were born in the Philippines to an American father Tarny Perkins  from California and a Filipina mother Tess Pazziuagan, is a former flight stewardess from Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Tess is also a former classmate of mine. I’m a big fan of the Perkins Twins, I was amazed to see how their acting talent and nice vocals shines through . I’m excited to see your next movie again. Congratulations Jesse and Christian Perkins and to the proud parents, Tarny and Tess.

Perkins Twins surrounded by fans.

Kaibigan Movie

NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

I recommend that you watch this movie

A must- see movie the “Kaibigan” There are exciting and impressive sequences in  Kaibigan but in the end is the most memorable touching scene, you’ll also find facts that will surprise you, it’s an inspiring movie with meaningful life lessons to learn and to satisfy every film enthusiast.

Tarny Perkins, father of the Perkins twins thanking everyone who watched the film, Kaibigan.

Successful Red Carpet Premiere of the movie, Kaibigan SM Megamall Cinema December 3, 2019 All of us had a great night celebrating together.

Red Carpet Premiere of the movie KAIBIGAN

Successful Red Carpet Premiere of the movie, Kaibigan SM Megamall cinema December 3, 2019

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Arts/ Home Ideas | Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera~Palace of Memory

By on September 20, 2019

Time and date: 6 PM, Tuesday, September 10, 2019 At the Art Lounge Manila, a new location for Mario de Rivera, a Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter, to exhibit his work, he just held the Grand Opening of his One-Man Show. Many came to take in the creative display, as it provides viewers with a wealth of visual stimulation.

Nearly a hundred friends, art collectors, and family members attended, including other well-known figures from the art world.

Highlights of the exhibition include hand-drawn Champagne toasts, a discussion by artist Mario de Rivera about his inspirations, a live performance by a ballet couple, and a slide display of his son Lorenzo’s breathtaking paintings. Creativity appears to be inherited. It was hoped that Lorenzo’s artistic prowess would one day be on par with that of his famous father.

Artistically, Mario de Rivera is well-established at this point. Since then, he has participated in both solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally. Many auctions have featured his creations. In 2003, de Rivera beat over over a thousand international competitors to take home the Excellence Award at the Beppu Contemporary Art Exhibit in Japan, and in 2000, she was named one of three finalists for the Phillip Morris Award in Manila.

Art Lounge Manila Ground Level Podium ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

A catalog richly detailed that shows all exhibition pieces of de Rivera.

The variety of de Rivera’s paintings on display here exemplifies the appeal of modern visual arts.

The patronage of art enthusiasts and private collectors, in addition to the notoriety of numerous exhibitions in the mainstream media, social media, and blogs, has expanded in recent years, contributing to the paintings’ robust structural quality.

To your achievement, we raise our glasses! Mario (second from right) and his wife Luz are the toastmasters. To keep up with the growing demand, I wish you the best of luck. Cheers!

Thanks to Mario de Rivera’s keen eye, we are able to perceive the hidden reality of objects side by side, thanks to the contrast created by the whirling colors and the dazzling accents on the pure color. Style and form, rather than subject matter, are what make a photograph beautiful.

Me with the Filipino Asian modern and contemporary painter Mario de Rivera and Ninica del Rosario (Mario’s cousin).

Taken during the Grand Opening of Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory at Art Lounge Manila. (right ) Mario de Rivera, Ninica del Rosario, Me and Edgar Pazziuagan.

Added entertainment that evening, a Ballet duet live performance.

Stunning Paintings of Mario de Rivera

The scope of the whole collection, de Rivera produces the kind of art that suits the purposes of its particular time.

”The Black Dragon River”

”The Dry Season Afternoon”

”Between Sumba and Shanghai”

”Between Diu & Makassar”

”Anapolas Indias”

Atty. Baniqued, (left) Ninica del Rosario, Dr. and Dra Lim also graced the Gala opening of Mario de Rivera Palace of Memory.

Impressive Table Setting full of fantastic party appetizers and tasty finger foods.

Champagne and sparkling wine on the table

Having a solo show of artworks marks the achievement of huge success! The power of art inspired the viewers. I was enjoying the evening with friends around; Ninica (Mario’s cousin) and Edgar P., we all enjoyed the accomplishment of seeing Mario de Rivera’s work on display.

Thank you so much Ninica del Rosario for your kind invitation.

Congratulations to Mario de Rivera on his solo exhibition at Art Lounge Manila!

Art Lounge Manila proudly Presents Mario de Rivera’s Palace of Memory Grand Opening: September 10, 2019/ 6 PM / Exhibit runs until September 24, 2019/ The Podium Ground Level, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

30th Sambali Festival 2019

By on July 8, 2019

Every town or city has its annual event, either a religious, cultural, thanksgiving or a celebration of bountiful harvests. Whatever the reason, it serves the purpose of bringing town’s identity to honor our patron saint, heritage of culture and traditions. It is also a reason to get out of our daily and stressful routines to spend some time with friends and family and a hospitable practice to welcome, bond and to unite with relatives and townmates living in a foreign country.

Just like any other festival, Sambali celebrates with a series of performances and beauty pageant. Every year, our town conducts its own beauty pageant as popular inclusions.

Sambali Festival is a religious and cultural revival to commemorate Christianity of the Itawis region. It is a weeklong festival that reflects the daily life, culture, religion and history of Piat. This festival plays a prominent role in Piat’s culture and tourism.

 During the festival, Piat has many fun-filled activities to engage with, including the Entrance of our Lady of Piat, Floral offering, Dance number, Little Miss Piat and Miss Piat Sambali competition, Farmer’s day, Colorful street dancing, Street parade and Marian procession to name a few….

My townmates especially those living and working overseas, I know, it could be very lonely sometimes if you missed to attend this special day but this blog of mine will feature some of the joyful moods of the people and cheerful Sambali activities during the fiesta. You can catch up and I will reach out to you hoping you’ll experience the same mood while reading my blog.

Thousands of people attended the festival although, not yet known how many attendees in total. The good news, there’s no traffic congestion prevailed, there’s a smooth flow of traffic for this year 2019. Thanks to the construction of the new bypass route! The bypass is a priority project completed before the town fiesta, it’s an alternate route to divert traffic. My special thanks to Eng. James Garcia.

The mayor who vows to continue more development projects, Atty. Carmelo Villacete and wife Beatriz  poses for a photograph in front of bypass, a newly developed project. The two, combining their efforts and inspiring everyone to work together for a better Piat.

It’s a bright future for the people of Piat and I’m here to share your vision. Congratulations for reaching this far! With all the changes and thriving achievements, may you continue your traditions of dedicated leadership and cultural enrichment.

Photos taken during the ”30th Sambali Festival 2019”

Note: (This is not the full coverage of the Sambali Festival, it’s just a half of it )

Part of the festival is the Farmer’s Day” it’s a farm bountiful harvests show featuring exhibits and parading of local agricultural crops.

Our beloved Mayor, Atty. Carmelo Villacete carrying an oversized jackfruit, the mayor of Piat who introduced modern technical in farming and fruit planting. With the help of our mayor, agriculture will surely rise and crop yields will soon increase.

What a festive feeling!

This is a unique kind of float, ”The Kuliglig Float” ( improvised vehicle) featuring Piat’s farm agricultural products.

Presentation of Little Miss Piat and Miss Piat Sambali candidates

Coronation Night Little Miss Piat 2019

Little Miss Piat 2019 Pia Joy Sagalon

Back to Little Miss Piat 2018

Little Miss Piat 2018 Sara Sammoury

My gorgeous niece, Sara Sammoury bags the title ”Little Miss Piat” last year.

Another niece of mine, Miss Piat Sambali 2019 Daphne Louise Aquino

2019 Miss Piat Pagayaya Piatrice Marie Dela Cruz

Miss Piat Sambali Candidates brought out best designs on a variety of formal evening gowns.

Sambali Street Dancing

One fun activity to be enjoyed with is the highly anticipated  ” Sambali Street Dancing” this is for the students and other participants to showcase their talents. Students dressed in colorful and spectacular costumes performing  choreographed tribal dance.   

Dancing takes part on the street as an exhibition space for the performers to illustrate the Sambali war dance.

A traditional style entertainment scene. The street of Piat crammed with people followed by big crowds in colorful costumes beaming with so much Itawis spirit.

The most blessed part is the Marian procession, the feast day of ”Our Lady of Piat” it was an evening procession and despite the rain, many devotees flocked to the streets of Piat. Experiencing weather disturbance, rain didn’t stop but it was a peaceful walk with prayers.

Marian procession is a religious expression of Christian faith handed down by generations. Here in Piat, crowd gathered each time it is paraded through the streets of Piat during Sambali festival held annually on June 23-July 2.

Organizers of this event, devotees, the people of Piat and commuters earlier feared weather disturbance, the approaching brunt of moonsoon season might trigger and disrupt the week long activities especially the fluvial procession but it was just a fair and slight one prevailed. Rain or shine, the festival will go on.

The welcoming and entertaining Sambali festival is a huge success, Bravo! Once again, I  would like to express my sincerest thanks to our beloved mayor, Atty. Carmelo Villacete and wife, Beatriz Villacete, Vice-Mayor Leonel Guzman and to everyone who participated in this year’s 30th Sambali Festival. Congratulations! My best wishes to a more successful activities in the future. Special thanks Eng. James Garcia and Mr. Benedict Sto. Tomas Big thank you for all your hard work and perseverance. Well-done!

Note: Want to be featured on my blog? Don’t hesitate. Submit your photos, I will consider any pictures related to this event 30th Sambali Festival 2019. I will add your pics here. Pls. pm me messenger or pm Elvie Baculi (FB) for more details.

Thanks for reading my blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

30th Sambali Festival 2019 Join us for the big day

By on June 29, 2019

Many people are heading to the northern part of the Philippines, to Piat, a place where you’re really going to feel the warm welcome of the people. Come and be with ‘’Our Lady of Piat’’  Feel the warm of the festival, the people, the good food and our culture.

Join in, Enjoy the Fun and Share the Good News !

30th Sambali Festival 2019

June 23 – July 2

Piat Cagayan

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site

By on February 1, 2019

Heralding the arrival of bamboo modernity, among the best loved architecture I’ve seen during my recent visit toTaichung. The magnificent Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site considered as an absolute masterpiece illustrating Taiwanese interest in bamboo architecture.

The architectural trends using bamboo as the main material, the strength to weight ratio succeeds that of bricks and steel remarkably sustainable alternative for such projects. Bamboo Pavilion’s creative and structural element, refined and unique interior and exterior effect represents another turning point of a tropical country, the artistic talent accomplished by Taiwanese artists and bamboo architects.


Bamboo Pavilion
Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site
Taichung, Taiwan

Viewing directly from the front, the best way to fully appreciate the beautiful landscape is during sunset, warm lights you’ll enjoy the yellow-orange dramatic sky that gives substance offering a delightful welcome to those arriving tourists visiting Expo site.


Bamboo Pavilion
Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site
Taichung, Taiwan

Some photos taken during my Fengyuan Huludun visit

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

By on January 24, 2019

A visit to Peñablanca leads you to a discovery of a hidden paradise, it’s a perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday. Cagayanos often talks about the beauty of this resort, a beautiful resort you shouldn’t miss when you are in Tuguegarao, the Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort,  a family run resort, it’s here where you can enjoy the exceptional comfort, beauty, affordability and convenience.

My friend Mimi from Tuguegarao invited me to have a brief visit to her aunt’s resort. All three of us; Mimi, Me and Miyam went over to the said place. For overall town view heading to the resort, you’ll pass through the scenic route overlooking the beautiful Pinacanauan river. Upon approaching the entrance, you’ll know immediately why it is called, ‘’ Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort’’ When we were there, we were given a glimpse by Mimi’s aunt into some of their suites, we walked around admiring its vast space, we stopped often to take pictures. It’s just a short tour to show amenities the resort offers, it’s pretty-much everywhere.

What People love about Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Note: Rooms and Rates below

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort located in Barangay Cabbo Peñablanca Cagayan, the resort situated amidst huge hectares of land with a beautifully manicured lawn and a lush tropical garden. Just 20-minutes drive away from Tuguegarao and 35-minutes from Tuguegarao Airport.

It’s your best advantage to book here. It is convenient for long staying travelers. From here, you can easily reach other popular tourist attractions nearby such as; Iguig Calvary Hills, Callao Cave, Sierra Cave to mention a few..

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort Front Desk

It offers many options for relaxation. From its dramatic edge farm view, the standard features enveloped by trees, mountains, a beautiful sunrise and sunset view, it really has the soothing energy of nature.

Tourists and vacationers from elsewhere in Cagayan tend to visit this resort, it’s been a favorite venue for many events, private functions, hosting conferences, corporate events, family reunions, birthdays, Bridal shower, baptismal, graduation ball, anniversary celebrations and wedding receptions.

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Many people dream of getting away from a busy life by escaping to a paradise hideaway just like Balai ta Koman, it offers safe spaces for the kids, it’s also a family-friendly resort for summer outings and evening parties too.

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

 The resort features a clean and modern guest room in a 3-storey building, cabana, pavilion, reception lounge, conference room, function room to accommodate your guests, stunning poolside with the magnificent background view of hills and mountains, tree-shaded parking space, sound entertainment system and a sparkling outdoor swimming pool which are primarily designed for daytime and overnight use.

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Balai ta Koman divided into different phrases that provides comfortability and top presentation, each has its own unique characteristics.

Family Room
Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is naturally beautiful and clean, it’s quiet different from many other resorts.

Balai ta Koman has undergone new developments and renovations, it allows you to feel the best that you are longing for. All suites with balconies that offers a wide view of the serene surroundings.

Matrimonial/Double Room

Outdoor Swimming Pool is wide enough to accommodate big families and group of friends.

Sparkling Swimming Pool

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Outdoor Swimming Pool

Balai ta Caronan Farm Resort Wedding  Reception and Venues    

Note: Rooms and Rates Attached at the end of the article         

    

Dream wedding usually comes true and this is also ideal for you if you have plans in the near future. Attractive lighting accent plays brilliant into the poolside.

Romantic evening glow of a Poolside Wedding Reception


The eye catching wedding venue and poolside wedding ideas is truly sophisticated, charming and casually elegant.
Balai ta Koman Farm Resort, notable for their striking presentation.

Chapel Wedding


Gorgeous Poolside wedding reception

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort ~ Table Setting, Ideas and Decorations

One of the most important aspect of planning a wedding is deciding on what to eat and drink.

The ideal venue

For the gourmet, luscious concoctions of fruits and other delicate aspic creations.

Clarity is good , clear and clean table arrangement.

Romantic table setting

Festive evening atmosphere celebrating with family and friends.

This resort offers never ending series of courses to choose from.

Menus are native, western and other local favorites.

Focal glow when food commands attention as the background lights commands interest.

Truly authentic Filipino cuisine that we always crave for which can only be found in Balai ta Koman.

With a unique and sophisticated wedding platters, best of salads and buffet cookery on the table.

Elegant fruit dessert

Mama Meding’s 89th birthday celebration. A Boodle Fight style, big pile of  native favorites are served in the middle of long table.

The authentic Filipino cuisine deliciously fresh with the best ingredient that people come to expect.

Experience the distinguishing features of a good resort for your next holiday vacation, Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is a perfect destination and a great host to everything you need, pampering awaits you here…

Thank you so much Grace Audrey Caronan

For Special Functions and Social events, reservations and Inquiries

Balai ta koman Caronan Farm and Hotel Resort

Address:  Cabbo, Peñablanca Cagayan

Phone: For Booking Discounts Call – 0927 715 5851

ROOMS AND RATES

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

By on December 13, 2018

The evening parade last Sunday December 9, 2018 was truly spectacular! It’s already my 8th year of featuring the biggest and most awaited Christmas Electronic Float Parade. Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade is an annual holiday event and a combination of float parade and dance competition. This year’s Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade features 14 animated movie-themed floats; Lego Ninjago, Aquaman, Teen Titans, Justice League, Ant-Man, Venom to mention a few. ..

As like the previous years, each float has a new theme and new dimensions accompanied by the dance performers from participating schools:

Kapitolyo High School
Rizal High School
Dela Paz High School
Pinagbuhatan High School
Immaculada High School
Sta. Lucia High School
Nagpayong High School
Buting Senior High School
Pasig City Science High School
Sagad High School
Santolan High School
Eusebio High School
San Joaquin Kalawaan High School
Manggahan High School

The parade route starts at Tiendesitas Pasig and moves down to Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue all the way to Pasig City Hall for the dance competition. Paskotitap performers (High school dance troupe) wearing their lavish costume perfectly designed and tailored to incorporate float animated theme. All floats illustrate their own theme together with musical sounds, costumed characters and light flashing effects. Truly fantastic!

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade Schedule
December 9, 2018
6:00 pm
Tiendesitas Pasig City

This holiday event is a big treat to everyone, thousands of people lined up to watch the parade, it is really a big draw of all ages. All animated floats perfectly designed and built by famous artists and other props by the students.

My particular thanks to all Paskotitap organizers, artists, float designers, participating schools, All sponsors, Rotary Club of Pasig, Lion’s club and to our beloved Mayor Maribel Eusebio.

I would like to congratulate all Paskotitap Dance Competition Winners

1st Runner Up – Nagpayong High School
2nd Runner Up – Kapitolyo High School

Congratulations also to all dancers, choreographers and teachers. The Salayaw Dance Company is the official Dance Group of Nagpayong High School, Congratulations !

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Restaurant Review | Travel and Adventure

My Birthplace, My Hometown Piat Cagayan

By on December 3, 2018

It’s been a long time since I went back to my hometown, I haven’t visited my birthplace for almost 5 years. My hometown is just a small but peaceful town where my ancestors were born. I never forget the place where I came from, the place where I grew up and it will always remain as my 2nd home. Piat is a 4th class municipality in the province of Cagayan and I can firmly describe my own hometown as the ”land of the religious and hospitable people. Basílica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Piat is one of the 12 Basilicas in the Philippines, a catholic pilgrimage site considered as holy and spiritual land of devotion because of great number of devotees visiting Piat.

Once again, I’m back to my roots, Piat Cagayan. What a warm welcome surrounded by relatives recalling sweet moments of my childhood and the non-stop get together invitations to join my cousins for lunch and dinner. Feeling grateful, Thank you cousins for the sumptuous lunch and wonderful dinner, that was a very delightful bonding. The people of Piat and that includes me, they have this kind of special breed, the desirable two, they are notable for their exceptional generosity and hospitality.

Getting new updates after sometime. Piat Cagayan is now in full bloom, I was pleasantly surprised to see new developments; Welcome landmarks, Piat hill, Black Water lagoon, Road widening and Sidewalks improvement, Aquib Dugayong bridge, Basilica diversion bridge and many more… Fascinated and has turned my attention towards here resulting into a good blog feature, good enough to be published in detail.

I am really Blessed here in Piat

Basílica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Piat

A Glance Back to the Hey-day of Piat
In those days early 70’s, since its first settlement, Piat has prided itself on just remaining as a simple town by the hills and mountains. Houses has few stores, few retail signs, no street names, no electricity, no parks and other recreational facilities, poor transportation and rivers and lakes have been used as a source of water temporarily.

Years after, pumping water station essentially set up but to make matters worse, the pump has stopped losing suction standing idle for months causing the delay of water supply. It makes life miserable for the great bulk of people. Life was hard, I was only 14 years old that time and in the midst of loneliness, bad thought occurred to me that future in Piat is uncertain however, my wishful thinking in the mood of optimism giving myself a better impression holding on to hope that someone would come up with something that would improve quality of life as we all know, a successful town is providing people what they need and we all have needs in common. After a year revealed a continuing improvement, so big hope is coming over..

One beautiful attraction to adore around, an old housing types during the Spanish era. The only yearly event is the Feast of our Lady of Piat which is now the ‘’Sambali Festival’’ I can still remember the crowded sidewalks with tiangges (bazaars) side by side as they sell everything you would reasonably need , fiesta shopping is good once a year is the only consolation.

Popular attractions before; Kiddie-sized carnival, temporary movie tent, live magic shows, clown performances and temporary amusement parks. Another beautiful event is the ‘’Garden day’’ (as far as I can still remember those good old days…) native products and artworks beautifully displayed, native baskets and bountiful harvest.

Thousands of people flock to Basilica church for a miracle prayer. At least today, gave more insight into a much better life. Piat now is completely opposite from before, oldies aren’t the lucky ones, the new generation are luckier than us…

If you haven’t been to Piat recently, you’re in for a surprise! Piat now is a blossoming mélange of beauty. Today, Piat seems to have outgrown from a simple town to a stunning one! You can see the changing scene. Piat is now a fast growing town and there is always new to discover.

One recreational highlight in Piat is the beautiful Black Water Lagoon, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk around, boating, biking, fishing and Zip Line biking. You’ll be reinvigorated by the freshness of the atmosphere around. The Zip line is a must try for every visitor to experience the thrill and excitement.

The Black Water Lagoon name probably derived from the old ground, it was once an idle land filled with black stagnant water, (muddy and dirty) ground used as rubbish receptacle.

The Black Water Lagoon is a part of People’s Integrated Agri Tourism Center.(Piat Center) An easy to follow, An easily visible landmark frequented by locals for picture taking it’s just 1o mins walk from Basilica Minore Nuestra Senora De Piat.

The journey to and from Piat Center is half the enjoyment. There is a large parking lot close by, and the wide road itself is rather clean and broad, so you can take your time driving without having to deal with any stops.

Cheers to Piat! (me with my sis Elvie) Jumping with joy

The Black Water Lagoon invites leisurely exploration.

If you are a trill seeker, brave the Bike Zipline. Here’s  my nephew, EJ   riding a bike zipline over the Black Water Lagoon.

The Black Water Lagoon is now a favorite park for both residents and visitors and a favorite Sunday venue of the pilgrims who would picnic around and relax in a peaceful setting.

On a beautiful day, benches lined with people relaxing. By the afternoon, elders gather for bonding and good conversation while youngsters romp on the playground.

The beautiful Black Water Lagoon on a clear day, it’s a gathering and strolling park of all ages. Around the lagoon area, some residential area, the Dragon Fruit Farm from the left.

Hike around the lagoon to see the cool and green Dragon Fruit Farm.

The Black Water Lagoon at night.

If the Black Water Lagoon is beautiful daytime, it is more spectacular at night, it is a lively center for night stroll.The view of the whole center looks like a magical town, the artificial outdoor led cherry blossom lights illuminates the whole area, it was a magnificent night glow.

Note: More photos of Black Water Lagoon next posts, don’t miss it!

The Piat hill is an Itawis landmark, an easily visible landmark uphill, it is one of the most photogenic attractions in Piat. To explore the main trail, climb up high the Piat hill.

Other Attractions to Visit

Beside the Basilica is Mary’s Garden, a gated entrance with a life-sized image display of the Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. It is a place of prayer and meditation.

Rizal-Piat Cooperation Bridge, Basilica diversion road from Piat to Baung

Aquib-Dugayong Bridge. All 2 bridges to cut travel time for the pilgrims.

The Chico River

Food Cravings

Super Jumbo Special Pancit Cabagan. Carmela’s Panciteria serves a Super special Pancit Cabagan for only 50.00, Super Jumbo Special for only 70.00 php and Overload for 100.00 php. It’s Super Jumbo delicious!

Piat is a hill town but the mountainside provide exceptional views of the surroundings.

Piat to me, the town where I was born has given me proud identity as one of its citizens. For thousands who come to Piat, Our Lady of Piat is the big reason to go. You can reach Piat by land, 3o to 4o mins from Tuguegarao which is 32.6 Km and from Tuguegarao airport to Piat is 42 Km. Visit our peaceful town.The feast day of Our Lady of Piat is celebrated on July 2 at the Basilica Minore in Piat. Come and be with Our Lady of Piat. Most people consider Piat to be of paramount importance as well more information about this place. The people of Piat celebrates the Sambali festival from June 23rd to July 2nd, a week long festival that reflects the culture, tradition and history of Piat. This blog is a complete guide planning your next destination or if you plan to travel to Piat in the near future.

For more information
Department of Tourism
Regional Office No.02
29-A Rizal street, Tuguegarao city, Cagayan

I would like to thank our beloved Mayor of Piat Atty. Carmelo Villacete,  Councillors, Engineers, volunteers and Engr. James Garcia for your consistent efforts, hard work and the beginnings of a Modern Piat. Loudly applauded! Mabbalat kan ikayu ngammin kanyan Piat. Thank you so much!

Leave your comment below. Share a bit of your unforgettable memories. Thank you !

Thank you for reading my blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Chinese Cultural Festival 2018

By on March 7, 2018

Chinese new year celebrations around the world is always welcomed by cultural performances, festive shows, fireworks display, lucky foods, good wishes in their own traditional way and Philippines is no exception to that. In connection with the annual New Year celebration at Shangri-La Plaza ( a world class shopping and dining mall destination)  Elegant Chinese pagoda on the ground level with an artistic modern looking designs of 12 animal zodiac. Of course! the reigning animal symbol for this year 2018 ”The Year of the Earth Dog”

The grand celebration at Shang Atrium last Sunday February 25, 2018 showcased the Chinese folk culture includes the thrilling high pole lion dance, Dragon dance, Wushu and Amazing drummers performed by multi-talented performers of Chinese Ling Nam Athletic Federation. Ling Nam Athletes performed at Chinese New Year and other holiday events.

The president and vice-president of Ling-Nam Federation with other prominent personalities

Chinese Ling Nam Athletic Federation and Fire and Rescue Volunteer, a non-governmental organization aims to promote traditional martial arts, they produced multi talented performers and received various awards from competition abroad.

With their own field of expertise, the Ling Nam Fire and Rescue Volunteers are very attentive and responsive to the needs of the community. Other projects includes the medical and dental mission. Over the years of helping the needy, their accomplishments has progressed with its vision and growing bigger and very popular. Congratulations and Thank you for continuing fine tradition of service to your fellowmen.

Master William Soon (center) and company

Master William Soon, the chief instructor of Chinese Ling Nam Athletic Federation is very smart and accommodating. He referred me to ‘’Aga’’ for a broad interview detailing the culture and history of the organization.

Playing the gong is Gumey Bautista, Wushu and Lion dance junior instructor.

Lion dancers all dressed with vibrant colors displaying their new year greetings and wishes for the year 2018 ”the Year of the Earth Dog”

Taking part in the photography and publishing level, I’ve excused myself last Sunday from other activities scheduled for the day just to attend the said event. It’s all done and worth it! So many good performers, I feel thrilled and excited more than exhausted.

The dazzling glow of Shangri-La and colorful splendors of the lions.

Loud sounds of drums, gongs and cymbals filled the whole of Shangri-La plaza, it’s the instrument of expression to drive away misfortunes and bad spirits.

The Dragon Dance

The Lion dance

The drummers

Comic performers

Philippine Ling Nam Athletic Federation Dragon and Lion Dance Exhibition, Wushu and Drum Performance

Other pictures taken during the live exhibition

 

 

 

Welcoming the new year marks new beginning and good expectations, hopefully it will bring more blessings. It’s the year of the dog, please be more kind to your dogs and love all animals as well. Happy Chinese New Year 2018 everyone!

I would like to thank Master William Soon, to you Aga, to all performers, organizers and to all who supported the event. See you all again soon. Thank you guys!

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