The Big Davao Fun Sale

I am a proud Davaoeño and almost everyone of you here are aware of it. I practically grew up in this sprawling metropolis and I have witnessed its growth since then. Back when I was still a kid, the only shopping destinations I knew were JS Gaisano Ilustre, Victoria Plaza Mall, and Gaisano Mall. There were no SM or Ayala Malls that time. As years went by, the population increased and businesses and investments flourished. To make the long story short, several establishments sprouted like mushrooms in order to address the demands of the people.

With a total population of 2 million, Davao has grown big and is preparing for something bigger this March and April 2014. Brace yourselves, guys. The Big Davao Fun Sale is coming to town!

Simple Tips For Solo Travel

There are many benefits to traveling alone. You can learn a lot about yourself and get some great experiences and memories. According to Travel and Leisure, the change of environment can help to clear your head and may be the perfect “dose of momentum” needed to help you deal with any challenges or changes in your life.

Traveling provides the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, often with different backgrounds, yet similar struggles, providing a unique perspective on what is truly important. Once you’ve decided to make travel a priority, how can you make it a reality?

Of Living and Working In Metro Manila

Makati City, Philippines

I used to wake up at five in the morning, braved the running, cold water from the shower and occasionally fought indolence. There was no time for breakfast because I have to leave the house at around quarter to six to catch up the early ride to my work station. A carton of milk and a bite of biscuit was already enough, or so I thought. And as always, the 6AM traffic jam is always unbearable most especially on weekdays. It seemed like people magically come out of nowhere and instantly fill the jeeps, taxis, and buses. And by the time I finish my work, I'd go home and experience the same stress ALL OVER AGAIN.

That's how I'd like to describe my life in Metro Manila and I didn't expect that I'd survive that way of life for almost two years!

The Albert Dock: Top Reasons to Visit

As one of the most iconic areas in the whole of England, the Albert Dock certainly doesn’t fall short when it comes to reasons to visit. If you are planning a trip to Liverpool at some point over the coming months, you’d be foolish not to stop by this incredible heritage centre that occupies 1.25million sq. feet of space, which includes various entertainment attractions, restaurants and bars to keep you occupied from the morning, right through until the evening. Take a look at the Liverpool Travelodge hotels so that you can base yourself in the heart of the city, and, if you need some reasons to visit, read on!

Random Shots: Plaridel Airport

Upon learning that I'm going to be permanently assigned in Tacloban Tower/Approach Control facility, I together with my five other classmates who were also assigned to different provinces of the Philippines such as Kalibo, Busuanga, Subic, and Tuguegarao, will temporarily stay in Plaridel Tower. We still have to wait for our travel orders and some important documents before leaving Manila.

It was also an opportunity for me and my favorite toy (ehem, Canon EOS 1100D, we meet again!) to bond here in Plaridel. I have almost abandoned it during my training last year and my parents seldom used it.

Well, it feels so great to be reunited again with my favorite toy in the world!

The Crazy Super Viking Ride of Tagaytay

Come, fly with me!

I remember the first time I rode an extreme carnival ride. Davao City, early 2009. My friends and I were at Mary Rose Carnival. It's a mobile carnival - it travels across Mindanao assembles by its own self (loljk just kidding)!. Mary Rose Carnival aka Enchanted Ma-a previously occupies on what used to be a vacant property adjacent to NCCC Mall (S&R Membership Shopping currently occupies the former location of the carnival).

We then tried the Sea Dragon (or Pirates Away to some theme parks). I am not acrophobic but this ride had taken its toll on me. I got completely terrified, at the same time excited after that ride, well blame it to adrenaline rush.

I never thought that I'd had the chance to ride it again, this time on different a location, occasion, and with different sets of people. Nonetheless, my latest extreme ride experience was truly remarkable. It felt like it was still my first time.

The Much-Awaited Tagaytay Adventure

12th of January, 2014

After the grand announcement of our place of assignments, my batch mates decided to bond for the last time before reporting to our respective facilities tomorrow (huhuhu #SeparationAnxiety). 30 new ATCs (too bad, not all of us didn't attend this grand getaway... we're 53 by the way) of the country invaded Tagaytay!

Not to mention that almost all of us were Tagaytay virgins. Oops.

Hello, 2014!

The First Davao Torotot Festival. Photo by Jeff Pioquinto, SJ

2013 had finally took off and we welcomed the new year with a bang. 2013 has been a good year for me, when it comes to career and self discovery.

So, how did you celebrate your new year? Well, I celebrated my new year here in Davao City, where firecrackers, sparklers, and even sky lanterns are strictly prohibited. But hey, Davaoeños are innovative. This year, we set a new record for having the most number of people who blew horns (torotot) simultaneously for ten seconds. Congrats, Davao! And to give you an idea, here's more or less how Davao looks like on New Year's Eve:

Davao City at night. Photo by jeffte

Here are some things to look forward this 2014: