Frozen Christmas In The Mall

For the year-end celebration this year, it takes a lot of preparation in buying presents to people closed to us. The popularity of Frozen film created a big impact to the crowd form different nations. They seem united and enjoyed to talk about the success story of Anna and Elsa. In SM Baguio, you cannot roll your eyes of not seeing the motif; it is in the middle foundation of the mall. As compared from the previous years, the security is so tight. The limitations in taking photos in the area seem overrated. I can't wait to bring my little niece to have her photos with the cast of Frozen. I am sure. Wide-open eyes will be the next thing to happen.

Mister Watch Repairman Shop

In Baguio City, it is inevitable to remember the old school days. A simple lifestyle diminishes as the years go by, the old folks could relate with the inquisitive changes in the modern world. When I was a toddler, I had seen the changes as the world become more complex state. A perfect example, a simple Baguio boy learns to live in a modest lifestyle and be happy to have wrist watch possession. If it is broken or need to be repaired, watch repairman is available to render his service on the street. You heard it right. All types of watches can be repaired without a doubt. Young generations would not be able to understand the value of simple livelihood that brings simple joy. At present, the repairmen of watches are still exist and continued to serve the people on the sidewalk. Glimpse of simple lifestyle that can never be forget in the city.

My Premiere on Television

After almost a year stint of doing volunteer work in Tajikistan as a Polio Rehabilitation Adviser and Coach, it took a while for me to adjust to my normal life back home. Living a modest life in a foreign land was quite challenging as it tests one's survival skill. Everything is different and one has no choice but to face it. It is a life changing experience on my part as it gives me another perspective in seeing life.

A local cable channel here in Baguio invited me and another co-volunteer, Lolita del Rosario, sometime in July 2012. The show is titled "Usapang Turismo hosted by Mr. Gaby Keith aired in Sky Cable. We were mainly invited to discuss about our experiences and to provide some tips to future volunteers.  Oh by the way, this was also my first time to be interviewed and appeared on local television.

Part One

Part Two

Christmas Is Near!

Despite the unfortunate series of events that happened in our country lately, we, Filipinos, still mirror the symbols of hope and courage; characteristics that are contagious and are a must these days. In less than 30 days before Christmas, establishments around the summer capital of the Philippines are all prep up and laced with these colorful decorations and merry making songs are played almost everywhere. This only mark for the coming of that very special natal day of our Savior.

The scent of pine trees mixed with the cold breeze here in Baguio city only adds to that Christmas spirit everyone is looking forward during Yuletide season.  When I was roaming around the city one fine afternoon, I happened to pass by at SM Baguio and had the chance to see their annual Christmas decoration located at the very center of the mall. The red, green, and gold color abound the entire mall.

Families, friends, and everyone who happened to pass by the mall could not resist to stop and appreciate the wonderful and awe inspiring decorations prepared in front of them.

But let us all remember that the true meaning of Christmas is not just all about these shining and lavish decorations on this material world, but what is more important is the genuine heart that we are all willing to share to everyone.  

Daniel Hudson Burnham Monument

Daniel Hudson Burnham

Burnham Park, Baguio City

Christmas Tree in the Circle of Baguio

          It is a tradition in Baguio City to have Christmas tree in the town proper. Every Yuletide season, the Christmas tree is used to build in the lower Session Road, particularly the tallest pine tree right across the Maharlika. The traditional practice would be break for this year, but they had installed the tree in the circle located in upper Session Road.

         For this season, people are so busy buying gifts or any errands for the upcoming Christmas Eve. Walking along the either side of the road going to SM Baguio, you will not miss to see the simple Christmas tree in town.  

        Reaching to the top, SM Baguio showcased to celebrate the special occasion. In the ground floor, you will be amazed with the beauty of a house in the center of the mall, decorated with Christmas ornaments. Taking photos insight is so refreshing to be reminded how special the season this year.

Lion's Roar in Kennon Road

The route travel from Baguio City along Kennon Road, you will clearly see from far distance a Lion's head. It was built in 1970s, long time before I was born. I can still remember that shade of this huge rock was in black, but it was repainted with the combination of black and gold. In 16th of July 1990, the Lion’s head was reconstructed due to the earthquake that struck Baguio City. People from the low land area or tourists used to take pictures at the Lion's head, fascinated with the landmark in zigzag road (Kennon Road).

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Pep Talk in CAFe' by the Ruins

         After a half-day of of dealing with some documents in Baguio City Hall, I invited my buddy to continue our pep talk in Café by the Ruins. It easy to search the place, you just go straight forward exiting from the City Hall. Passing through the flag pole, move across at the main road, and then turn to the right side. The distance for about 2 minutes to the area, specifically along the Chuntug Street.  A cup of coffee with some bread to munch, the best place for a cozy chat moment with a friend.

Life in the Graveyard

         Early morning last 28th day of October, my siblings and I went to graveyard of our loved ones; it is simply for the reason of cleaning up the area after the year of last visit. It is a tradition for Filipinos to set the date bound to the public cemetery and give respect to the people left us behind, believing that there is life after death. 

 

 

      Beforehand, we lit a single candle at the tomb. Then we started to remove the grasses and dirt’s cluttered in the fences. It took us hours to wipe out the unwanted materials stained the surroundings. We don't mind the abrasions incurred in accomplishing the task. 

        Traditionally seen in white painted rectangular boxes, a very unique yard compared to other countries. The statues in different forms at the head of tombs, tombs are elevated from the ground and altars installed in the graveyard. 

         The residents of Baguio City used to do the same act as we've done for the day in Baguio Cemetery. It is fascinating to see people re-painting the graveyards, offer prayers, and even install temporary mini stores to sell things.  

Maria went to City Market

      I am a Baguio boy, going to the Baguio Public Market with my "lola" (grandma) was the most memorable to roam around the market. That's the usual routine of grandma, look after her shoe shop adjacent to the side of Maharlika. Riding a jeepney along Magsaysay Road, then call the driver's attention for  stop sign at the market.

        There is no other way for lowlanders to spend time buying local products in this market. Some of the local commodities that can be bought are: veggies, strawberries or ube jams, peanut brittles, choco flakes, local wines, native bags or accessories, broomsticks, and so forth. If you don't have enough money in peso bills, you can have money exchange in black market. Moreover, black market offers imported dry goods.  

Strawberry Farm

Some people await "ber" months; it starts in the month of September in Baguio City. During these months' period, strawberries are starting to be abundant in public market especially on December onwards. Fresh strawberries are so popular for some lowlanders, since it is one of the domestic commodities in the city. The sellers used to pack the fruit in boxes, nowadays it is segregated depending on its sizes slid in a styrofoam containers wrap with transparent plastic sheets.  Another, this kind of berry is commonly produced into jams and likely, they are transported to different places for reselling it or bring it home for their loved ones.

How about harvesting strawberries in the farm land? If you wish to experience to harvest of your own berries, you can take a ride to La Trinidad. Take a peek some souvenirs, such as knitted clothes, tribal-like key chains, and strawberry-like coin purses and among others.