Month: March 2013

Hiking up Bongao Peak, Tawi-Tawi

Standing majestic and proud, Bud Bongao or simply Bud (Bongao Peak), is the major landmark that greets visitors to the island province of Tawi-Tawi, the southernmost province of the country, located in the Autonomous Region on Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

This mountain cliff is considered sacred by locals, who believe that it has a power to heal people of sickness and cleanse them of their sins. Many locals hike up to ask for blessings for good health, to pray in the Muslim shrines along the way, or as a form of thanksgiving. Continue reading “Hiking up Bongao Peak, Tawi-Tawi”

TV Feature: Motorcycle Diaries on GMA News TV

“Sometimes it’s a little better to travel than to arrive.” – Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values

I started this blog exactly two years ago when I was seriously bitten by the travel bug. It was also about that time when I bought and learned how to drive my scooter Chocobo. Since then, I’ve been pursuing my different passions – travel, photography and motorcycling. For some reason, just doing what I love has paid off. I’ve been able to earn enough from freelance writing and photography in print media and through this blog. The best part is that I don’t feel like I’m working when I’m out there traveling or on assignment.

Continue reading “TV Feature: Motorcycle Diaries on GMA News TV”

Food Trip: Tawi-Tawi

Tawi-tawi is the Philippines southernmost province. Due to its relative inaccessibility as well as concerns about the peace and order situation in the surrounding areas, the island hasn’t been attracting as many travelers and tourists as other provinces in the country. This is a pity since it has lots to offer in terms of beautiful and historic sights, as well as interesting food.

Since Tawi-Tawi is an island province, I presumed that seafood would be plentiful. I also knew that pork would not be available, as it’s predominantly Muslim. I found out that most of the inns/hotels in Bongao, the capital town, have their own restaurants which serve regular Pinoy fare (mostly beef, chicken and seafood dishes). There are also a lot of carinderias (small eateries) and cafes if you want to try local specialties. If you’re planning a trip to Tawi-tawi, here are some of the dishes you can try out.

Continue reading “Food Trip: Tawi-Tawi”