How do you know that you are loved? Can Love be measured?

To me, love is the little things. The little things about trust--a stranger who offers you food because you forgot to bring your own, honesty--the person who is at his deepest times but choose to return your wallet, silence--a friend who is just simply quite beside you while you're crying because you don't talk about it for the moment, and a lot more of the things we both know are valuable. So if you ask me for it is to be measured, yeas and no. Yes, for the things that matter and no, for the things that didn't.

Why I love my Philippines (Tavelogue)

There are so much to love in the Philippines. You'll love the people, food and the beautiful destinations that only Philippines can offer. Check this out!

El Nido, Palawan
 

 Named as the most beautiful island beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveller magazine in 2015, El Nido is one of the must-visit and must-return places in the Philippines in 2016. When in El Nido, experience different island hopping tours to white sand beaches, enchanting lagoons, and crystal clear waters, where you can swim, snorkel, do kayaking, or just relax and embrace the hidden beauty of Mother Nature.


Boracay Island, Aklan
 

Boracay is probably the most popular beach island in the Philippines. It’s every Filipino’s dream to visit this island located in the province of Aklan. With its soft white sand, bright blue waters, beautiful sunset view, and unforgettable night life experiences, Boracay has been included in the top 20 best islands in the world by Condé Nast Traveller magazine

Batanes Islands, Batanes


Batanes is one of the most wanted tourist destinations in the Philippines. A trip to the province will give you the most unique sceneries of the country, which include unspoiled islands that will satisfy nature lovers, livestock freely roaming above endless green hills, massive cliffs overlooking oceans under the blue skies, rocky shores and white sand beaches, and the rich cultural heritage of the Ivatans.

Camiguin Island, Camiguin

Camiguin province holds the record of having the most number of volcanoes per square kilometer than any other island on the planet. But beyond volcanoes, the province also boasts natural attractions, including an uninhabited white sandbar, hot and cold springs, and waterfalls. Moreover, you can also witness the Lanzones festival in October, visit centuries-old churches, old ancestral homes and the infamous sunken cemetery.

Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Siargao is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines and home to the world-renowned surfing wave called “Cloud 9”. So if you love surfing, this island must be in your bucket list in 2016. However, Siargao is not only a perfect place for surfers but for any type of tourists. Unknown to many, the island is also hiding pristine white sand beaches, enchanting lagoons, natural pools, waterfalls, amazing caves, incredible rock formations, and more.

Coron, Palawan

Kayangan Lake, Coron, Palawan. Photo by Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ via Flickr.

Coron is a tropical paradise in the province of Palawan. The postcard-perfect scenery of Kayangan Lake with its towering limestone cliffs and crystalline waters is one of the must-visit places in the Philippines. Visiting Coron will give you an opportunity to swim at Kayangan Lake, dubbed as the cleanest lake in Asia. Coron is also one of the most visited destinations for wreck diving in the country.

Hinatuan Enchanted River, Surigao Del Sur

The clear, clean and bluish Enchanted River of Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur. Image by 2il org via Flickr.

If Surigao Del Norte is famous for its legendary Pacific waves in Siargao, Surigao Del Sur is known for its Enchanted River in Hinatuan. The clear bluish waters of Hinatuan’s Enchanted River can go as deep as 80 feet deep. A popular story among the locals tells that fairies and mermaids swim and play in the waters, protect the river, and maintain its cleanliness.

Mayon Volcano, Albay

Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay. Image by Ronnie Rey Manjares via Pixabay

Mount Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines. But in contrast of its threat lies a perfectly cone shaped volcano that can surpass the beauty of any volcano on Earth. The breathtaking landscape of Mayon Volcano is already a very popular landmark of the Philippines, as you can see it in the Philippine money and in common postcards in the country. Mayon is also named as one of the world’s most photogenic volcanoes by CNN Travel.

Taal Volcano and Tagaytay, Batangas and Cavite

Taal Volcano as seen from Tagaytay

Tagaytay City in Cavite is a popular holiday destination located south of Manila. It’s an ideal place for leisure and recreation activities, such as picnic, horseback riding, zipline riding, and catching the picturesque view of Taal Volcano Island surrounded by Taal Lake. For more adventure, tourists can head to Talisay, Batangas to cross Taal Lake on a motorboat and reach Taal Volcano Island to trek to the crater of the smallest active volcano in the world.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Photo by Carrie Kellenberger via Flickr.

Palawan seems to never run dry of amazing destinations for tourists. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park also called Puerto Princesa Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The 8.2 km long Underground River is said to be the longest navigable underground river in the world. The cave system contains stalactites, stalagmites, small underground waterfalls, and more river channels.

Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

Banaue Rice Terraces. Image by Cabajar via Wikimedia Commons

A national cultural treasure and considered by Filipinos as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, the Rice Terraces of Banaue is a perfect place for sightseeing, getting closer with nature, getting to know the tribes of Ifugao, and even consulting with a Mumbaki (a traditional Ifugao witch doctor) to perform spiritual healing rituals. The Rice Terraces were built 2,000 years ago by our ancestors using stone and mud walls to construct pond fields for rice cultivation in the mountains of Ifugao.

Chocolate Hills, Bohol

Chocolate Hills in Bohol. Photo by P199 via Wikimedia Commons.

One of the most famous landmarks of the Philippines, Chocolate Hills are more than a thousand hills spread over the municipalities of Carmen, Sagbayan and Batuan in Bohol. They are called as such because their green grasses layers turn brown during the dry season, making them look like chocolates. The province of Bohol is also known for white sand beaches, rivers, centuries-old churches, and the Philippine tarsier.

 Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Palawan

Tubbataha Reefs. Photo by q phia via Flickr.

If Mount Apo is for hikers, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a heaven for the scuba divers. This wonderful underwater world near the middle of Sulu Sea is one of the best dive sites on Earth. This protected sanctuary is home to pristine coral reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, clownfish, lionfish, sharks, and the endangered hawksbill sea turtles. The Natural Park which was also declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO is also a sanctuary for a hundred bird species.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur

The Spanish period houses in Calle Crisologo, VIgan, Ilocos Sur. Photo by Adrian Enriquez via Pixabay.

There are many Spanish colonial period houses and mansions that are scattered in the Philippines. But if you like to see an entire district that is exceptionally intact from its Spanish period architecture and scenery, Vigan is the place to be. The historic town of Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along Crisologo Street to experience an ambience dating back to the 16th century.

Intramuros and Rizal Park, Manila

The walled city of Intramuros in Manila.

Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is abundant with historical and educational attractions. The 400-year old historic walled city of Intramuros is home to Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Manila Cathedral, Palacio del Gobernador, Plaza de Roma, centuries-old canyons, cobblestones, and other buildings and ruins from the Spanish period. A walking distance from Intramuros is Rizal Park, the most famous park in the country and home to the iconic Rizal Monument, the country’s tallest flag, KM Zero, and much more.

National Museum of the Philippines, Manila

The huge painting, Spoliarium by Juan Luna

Another must-visit destination in Manila is the National Museum of the Philippines. If you like to learn more and appreciate the national cultural and historical treasures of the Filipinos, the museum is a place you shouldn’t miss in 2016. See for yourself the giant painting Spoliarium by Juan Luna, the Manunggul Jar and other prehistoric artifacts dated back from 890 to 710 B.C., the treasures of Spanish Galleon San Diego, the Balangay or Butuan boat, the different paintings and sculptures of various Filipino national artists, and other stuff you have probably only seen in textbooks.

Kawasan Falls, Cebu
 
 If you happen to be on a team vacation in Cebu, then take your members and leaders to the beautiful municipality of MoalBoal which hosts white-sand beaches and bountiful marine world. Ever dream of going under the waterfalls? Troop to Kawasan Falls in Badian, north of Cebu! The Queen City of the South can serve as your first stop for all your bucket list thoughts in the province of Cebu!

Sagada
 
Where do broken hearts go? Well, it’s probably in Sagada. Find your soulmate here if you’re still a lonely wanderer. Wake up after the night chat with the inspiring view of its cliffs from the Kiltepan Peak. Immerse in the burial culture through the Sagada Hanging Coffins. And don’t forget to taste the local lemon pie and yoghurt! 

Guimaras Island

The Western Visayas island of Guimaras is an interesting summer destination. There’s so much to do here from soaking in the crystal clear waters serving Raymen Beach, exploring its sea-level Baras Cave, walking up the Giusi lighthouse, snorkeling at Soly Luna, and of course, tasting their export product and an ultimate favorite fruit, Mango!

Dumaguete City

Next in the list is Negros Oriental’s Dumaguete City. Visiting delicacy shops should be definite. Everybody loves Sans Rival and their local street food lined up in their bay walk! You may also go to Dumaguete Zoo to see for yourself some of the country’s endangered species. And then, there’s the Dumaguete City Public Market which a tourist should never ever forget to visit for its cheap produce. If you have time left, go to Siliman University, the oldest American university in Asia.

Siquijor Island For a totally private and romantic hideout, go visit Siquijor – the island of fire. You’ll just love to cool breeze flowing into the island. Just want to hear the soothing sound of water? Take a ride to the island’s Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls. Adding to the island’s charm are its centuries old Balete trees, butterfly sanctuaries, and dive spots.
 

What do I expect from the Next President of the Philippines

Brave, decisive, smart, transparent, confident, committed to his work and the people, an inspiration to all, approachable, with moral conscience and a good heart. The next president of the Philippines must have this qualities inable for him to run the country well. Our country is in a dire situation and will never move forward unless a good leader will take-over over their so-called "Daang Matuwid". We had enough of this trapo (traditional politicians)! We want a leader to fight for people's right and not for his or his colleague's good only.

The next leader must be the one that our country lacks off. First, we lack discipline. No country can be progressive unless its citizens are law-abiding and disciplined. We have enough law  in this country. In fact, Philippines is one of the countries in the world that has so much laws, but why are we still like this? Second, the drug problem has become a national menace.Third, corruption is endemic in all levels of government. Lastly, criminality is rampant nationwide.

There is this man from Davao that I think he can lessen but not eliminate this problems our country is now facing. He has the qualities. He has been in politics for how many years but he is a not a "trapo". He speaks candidly without fear of the political consequences of what he says. He is a problem solver. He has successfully addressed the problems on illegal drugs, traffic and criminality. He has balls and is not afraid of anyone. He has a track record of good governance.

Let me also briefly describe the frontrunners in the 2016 elections. Vice President Jejomar Binay is allegedly involved in the massive corruption. Interior Secretary Mar Roxas is intelligent but has done nothing spectacular during his long government service. Let's add the Yolanda fund that he allegedly used for own good or for the campaign.Senator Grace Poe has a very little experience in governance.

For me, the best choice for the position is Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Well, we have also Senator Mirriam Santiago but let's accept the fact that she has stage 4 cancer and I think she will not be able to finish the 6-year term as a president if ever elected. Mayor Duterte has also many controversies but we can't also deny how brilliant he is for governing Davao for over 20 years. And Davao now is the 9th safest city in the whole world.

Gain in your 20s, Build in your 30s, Chill in your 40s


Future. Just a word but once you hear it, different things will come into your mind. What am I doing ten or twenty years from now? Did you already plan for your future? Me, I'm working on it.

Gain in your 20's. I'm nineteen and nothing. And I'm afraid to being a twenty-year-old lady with no job. Well, I already plan for that. By God's grace and hard work, when I become twenty-one-year-old and a CPA, I will work in the most prestigious accounting firm the the country, SGV and Co. Philippines. I will work there for like two years or so. I need to have a good experience in accounting world inable for me to grow as a competent and talented accountant cause I really want to work abroad. Yes, I know everyone wants to work abroad and I'm one of them. I can really feel that my future is there, that I'll live there with my family. Gain. Gain. Gain. That's what I'm planning during my twenties. Who wouldn't want to be rich, right?

Build in your 30s. I'll marry the man I love in my 30th year. This will be the time that I want to settle for good with my future husband. We'll build a family with two children, a boy and a girl and a  house that just not  for the 4 of us, I want my mama and papa to live with us if they want. I want a mustang car for me, and a ford ranger for the whole family and for my husband, well he can choose whatever he likes.

Chill in your 40s! This will be the time of my life! When I was young, I always wanted to travel around the world. And I have a list already. I wanted to go to Japan, Maldives, Rome, Paris, Australia, Los Angeles, Washington, Unites Kingdom, Bora Bora, New York, San Francisco, Venice, Brazil, Dubai, Singapore, China, South Korea and many more. I know it costs a lot but it's free to dream and like I said, I'm working on it.

I'm a girl with lots of dreams in my head and I'll be conquering it!

Story of my Life


I am just a simple girl from the south who dreamed of a simple life together with my family. But not until I began college. I realized that the world is so big to have a small dream, I have to conquer the world.

When I was till in high school, my mom is always telling me that engineering course is the best for me, that I'll enjoy being an engineer someday. She told me how engineering course can change my life someday but not until when I was in my fourth year in high school. She changed her mind. She told me to take up accountancy instead. "You're good at math", she said and "accountancy are for the girls." And the engineering course? Well, she told me that when I become an engineer someday, I will hate my job cause I'll go to building sites and it will be so hot there and dirty and it's not for the girls. Actually, I hate her that time. I set my mind that I'm going to be an engineer for a long period of time and in just seconds, she will change her mind. As for me, being an obedient daughter as always, I said okay.

I really have no idea what accounting is! I don't even know about debit and credit! I really struggled during my first year. Yes, I love reading but only novels. I never thought I'll read bunch of books just to pass my major subjects. And take note, not just reading, it's reading and re-reading and answer lots of problems! This is suicide, I said to myself.

There are lots of time I wanted to quit but I always wash that away from my mind. There are also a lot of time that I feel so tired and wanted to give up but I think of my family. There are times that I drown myself into tears and talking to myself like, "this is my mom's fault why I'm like this. This is really her fault why I'm suffering like this." But someone said that when I become a CPA someday, I will tell my mom, "Ma, this is all because of you."

Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going. It's not only willingness, but it comes also with hard work and prayers. Next school year I'll be in my last year being an accountancy student, hopefully. I'll be a CPA someday. I can do all things in Him who strengthens me!

THE WONDERS OF MY PROVINCE, REGION IX (ZAMBOANGA PENINZULA)

Mamalawi Island, the Crown Jewel of Basilan




Sibugsay Festival at Sibugay




Dipolog Cathedral




Buluan Island at Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay





Our Lady of Pilar in Zamboanga City





Fantasyland in Dapitan City





House of Rizal in Dapitan City




Dakak Park and Beach Resort in Dapitan City





Big Manok at the Municipality of Manukan





Montaño Sardines




Lampacanay Sala Set of Zamboanga Sibugay





Wesmin Coolers Calamansi Concentrate of Zamboanga Sibugay

FAVORITE FILIPINO DELICACY

Pinakbet

Ingredients:

• In a pan, fry the boiled pork to brown. Set aside.
• 2 medium-length eggplants, cubed
• 1 medium-length bitter melon (ampalaya), sliced
• 6 tender okra pods
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup of sliced onions
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup water from rinsing rice
• 3 tbsp fermented sauce (less if it’s a salty bagoong)
• 1 tbsp pounded ginger
• 1 cup boiled sliced pork
• 2 tbsp cooking oil

How to Prepare:

1. In a pan, fry the boiled pork to brown. Set aside.
2. In the same pan, stir-fry the garlic, onions, ginger and tomatoes.
3. Boil the rice-washing water in a large pan (2-qt capacity) with the bagoong.
4. Add the pork and the stir-fried garlic, onion, ginger and tomatoes.
5. Bring back to a boil, then add the ampalaya, eggplant and okra.
6. Cover the pan and cook over high heat, then turn down the heat to prevent scorching.
7. Cook until the vegetables are done. Don’t overcook because the vegetables will lose their bright colors and become mushy.
*Feel free to vary the ingredients. For instance, squash (kalabasa) is a popular ingredient because it adds a bright orange color to the dish. String beans (sitaw) are another popular vegetable in pakbet. If you don’t have bagoong on hand, just use salt.

I often ask my mom to cook me pinakbet when I'm home.The first reason why I love this dish so much is that it's really healthy since it's ingredients are most vegetables. Second, it's really delicious especially when you pair it with ginamos. That's the way I eat pinakbet. Lastly, it's so easy to cook. I haven't cooked pinakbet yet but I know it's easy to cook since I always watch my mom cook it. My sister can even cook pinakbet so I'm pretty sure I can do it also.