Pahiyas of Lucban, Quezon: The Overloaded festivity of Southern Luzon

Given the opportunity and time to travel with cool people, it will be a pleasure on my part. Ahead of time, my office-mate Sheen invited me and our other team mates to experience the famous Pahiyas in Lucban, Quezon.

Pahiyas Festival is celebrated every 15th day of May for good harvest dedicated for their patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. According to some oral and written record, the said event started in early 1500. In present time, the festivity captures the attention of tourist and travelers alike to see and experience unique features of Pahiyas. Every year, the organizers of the said event select certain route in the town proper for the parade. The event includes, the best designed and decorated house [main contest], Bikas Gayak [Best dress made in organic/raw materials] and Pancit Habhab Feista-val along side with marching bands and majorette. To sum up, the year’s theme is Grabo Lucban that pertains to the colorful fair of Pahiyas.

Mt. Pinagbanderahan and Bantakay Falls: Back to Back outdoor activities

To start with, I would like to dedicate this feature blogging to my old friends whom I used to be with every weekend to explore the wonders of nature. Regardless the distance and difficulties to reach the hot spot, the eagerness and desire to conquer and set foot on the destined place will always prevail. The spirit of oneness and brotherhood that I will always treasure being with them.

KASAMA | Credits to Arem Gelogo

Kamay ni Hesus: With Him

Quezon Province is known for its diversified natural wonders, landmarks, famous heroes and politicians but aside from I've mentioned, the said place signifies the great influnce of the spaniard in our country which is religion - Catholisism.

For 300 years of colonialism and up to the present generation, Religion binds our nation with one God and by showing devotion and faith, the Spanish Colony built hundreds of Churches all over the Philippines to spread and preach the word of the Lord.

NOW - Century year old churches are being preserve, restore and protected by the local government and NGO as this structure are vital part of our inheritance, culture, tradition and history.

Talking about religion and churches, there's specific spot in Quezon which is in Lucban, where a huge statue of Jesus Christ stood at the top of the mountain. Which is called Kamay ni Hesus.

Credits to Edward Calugtong

Cagbalete Island: Wanderlust

Been intrigue for several months about the wanderlust of Mauban, Quezon no less than Cagbalete Island. Cagbalete is famous with its kilometer long powdery white sands and shorelines during low tides. Aside from the sands and crystal clear water, tourist can also try various activity such kayaking, snorkeling, island hopping and river crossing.

Day 2 | Credits to Arem Gelogo

Having said some must try activities of Cagbalete we’re off for an overnight stay in the Island.

Mt. Romelo : Hidden Paradise

Right after our successful Mt. Maculot climb, here we go again eager to explore the hidden treasure of nature. All are set for a weekend exploration at Famy, Quezon. Our next destination would be Mt. Romelo and Buruwisan Falls.

From 13 young enthusiastic hikers down to 7 determined adventurers plus two recruit equals 9 wonderers to discover Mt. Romelo.

Panoramic view | Credits to Arem Gelogo