Highlights of my first Iloilo Dinagyang Festival

We woke up with our ear drums still echoing with the awesome beats by DJs Brandon Jon, Elmer Dado and Gruppo Tribale at Plazuela de Iloilo the night before. We did not waste time and literally lived all out the first night in Iloilo. It was certainly a nice prelude to the actual event! Casa La Granja was actually a cozy and chic place, with rooms that are spacious, minimalistic but comfortable. It also has a swimming pool. You can't help but notice that it is somewhat Moroccan-design inspired, which is awesome.



Since our first engagement is still scheduled after lunch, we decided to visit the old churches, that which Iloilo is known for. First we trooped to the Jaro Cathedral, which was built in 1874. It was damaged by an earthquake in 1948, but was fixed years later in 1958. We started the day right, by thanking the Lord for all the blessings - for being in Iloilo to celebrate Dinagyang Festival, for being able to travel, and for new friends.

After Jaro Cathedral, we went to Molo Church (lowest right photo), which carries an interesting history itself. It was originally built made "of tabique pampango with a chalk roof, then built temporarily with nipa" by Fr. Jose Ma. Sichon in 1863. The concrete structure was approved and built by Bishop Mariano Cuartero in 1869. In honor of Saint Anne, this church was known to be a feminist church because of the two rows of sixteen female saints line on both sides of the altar. Molo Church was declared a national landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1992. It is the only Gothic church outside Manila.



After the churches, we visited the Angelicum School, previously the Lizares Mansion, one of Iloilo's iconic heritage houses. The house was built in 1937 by Don Emiliano Lizares for his wife Conchita Gamboa and their two sons and three daughters, the mansion has three floors, a basement and an attic. It has a winding wooden staircase and big bedrooms with floor and doors made of hardwood. It has 59 doors which indicate the intricacy of its layout. During World War II, the mansion was then used as headquarters of the Japanese army, and was believed that the basement became a dumping ground for tortured Filipinos. After the war, the family went back to live in the mansion, but life was never the same. In 1950, Don Emiliano Lizares died and his widow left for Manila, leasing the mansion to a businessman who turned it into a casino. The city mayor later ordered that the casino be closed, claiming that it corrupted the Ilonggos. In 1962 the Lizares Mansion was sold to the Dominicans. In 1963, it was converted into a House of Formation for young Dominicans in the Philippines. And finally, in 1978, the Lizares Mansion compound became the home of Angelicum School Iloilo. There's an urban legend saying that the house is haunted, but I do not really believe until I see it.



We went straight to Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood for lunch with David Guison, who caught up with us at Molo Church, and our new Ilonggo friend John Lex Bayombong. We had lechon, native chicken, inihaw na pusit or squid, but most of all, our favorite, the baked oysters!



Gretchen, my aunt Annie, Angela, John Lexx, Kim, Iris, David, Miko and I at Tatoy's signage. Trivia: Tatoy is the nickname of John Lexx's grandfather. Thanks for an awesome lunch! :)



I blogged about the 2014 Starbucks Festival Tumblers a few weeks back, which launched with the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan and Sinulog Festival in Cebu. Meanwhile, while we were waiting, I spotted these colorful and cute Dinagyang Festival Tumblers at Starbucks Iloilo. Hala Bira!



It was about time for our grand parade! We were on board living it all out on SMART Communication's float. DJ Elmer Dado and the talented Gruppo Tribale were also on board with us, together with the ABS-CBN talent Arjo Atayde. It was not my first time on board a float in a parade (see 2011 Panagbenga Festival with my former boss Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim in Baguio), but it was certainly the first time for me to wave at the crowd, and dance on the float! Nevertheless, it was a memorable experience for the books. The best part is that I had fun with my cousin Gretch, and fellow SMART digital ambassadors Miko and Angela.



Visiting Iloilo would not be complete without trying the famous and original La Paz Batchoy, so we visited the best one, Netong's La Paz Batchoy, located inside the La Paz Public Market. Netong’s authentic La Paz Batchoy is made of egg noodles, a mix of pork and beef, with garlic, chicharon, liver and onion leaves.



Trying out all these famous and delicious food was very satisfying to our tummies, although I am sure we all gained after that. It was our first time, so it was forgivable to indulge and binge on these local delicacies. It was all worth it in the end. We trooped back to our hotel to freshen up and prepare for the Dinagyang Invasion party that night. We arrived a little bit early, but it was all cool, as the DJs and the music were excellent in livening up the crowd.



With Angela, DJ Brandon Jon, DJ Inno Naguit, and all the craziness and dope things in between that happened that night. It was the most epic and fun night with family and friends, and a great way to kick start 2014! :) Thanks to SMART Communications for bringing us to #SmartDinagyang! It was a #SmartLiveAll party I will always remember.



We finished around 4am, slept, and woke up at 7am to attend the street party, the main event of the Dinagyang Festival. Dinagyang is Iloilo City’s version of the Ati-Atihan festival, widely celebrated not only in Panay Island but also in other parts of the country. It is an annual festival in honor of the Holy child (Sto. Nino), and the indigenous culture of the Panayanons. It is "an Ilonggo term for revelry or merrymaking, Dinagyang was coined in 1977 by Ilonggo writer/broadcaster Pacifico Sudario to describe the riotous celebration," according to Dinagyang 2014 website.



Was so glad to see one of the hardworking regional directors of the Department of Tourism, Atty. Helen Catalbas of DOT Region VI or Western Visayas. In attendance also was Tourism Undersecretary Maria Victoria Jasmin, but unfortunately, I was not able to meet her because of the crowd that made it impossible to spot her. Nevertheless, I am glad that the Tourism Department is all out in its support for this festival.



Until the next Dinagyang Festival. Hala Bira, Iloilo! Mabuhay! :)

Follow me on Twitter @briankingong and Instagram @briankingong for more photos and updates.

Also check out the Dinagyang Festival blog posts of Miko, Angela, and our guest, David:

Miko Carreon: Smart Dinagyang Experience
Angela Nepomuceno: Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2014 Experience #LiveAllOut
David Guison: Postcards from Iloilo

Conquering Mt. Pulag Part 1: Preparations and Pre-climb

Last December 29, 2013, I conquered Mt. Pulag, the playground of the "gods", Luzon's highest peak, and the Philippines' 2nd highest peak; all of it was made possible and made better by Travel Factor and the new people I met on the trip!

On the peak of Mt. Pulag, Benguet, Mountain Province, Philippines at 2,922 meters above sea level. The sea of clouds and fellow mountain climbers on the background. The sun is about to rise. | Photo by Gestine Campo

It came in an unexpected but opportune time when Travel Factor, one of the Philippines' leading adventure travel companies, invited me to go with them on a trip to their Biyaheng Victory Conquer Pulag. I immediately grabbed the opportunity to live more and travel to a new destination. I did not hesitate even though I am climbing a mountain and camping for the first time. After all, Travel Factor is known for its excellent, fun, and hassle-free way of leading a group of travelers. Traveling is surely made better when you're with them.

We were asked to attend a pre-climb, where details of our trip, like the itinerary, things to bring, what to expect, and other important details, were discussed. After that, Travel Factor sent us individual emails of our itinerary, list of things to bring, reminders, and our coordinator and his contact details. They're very organized to the small details, and very beginner friendly. They do not assume that you already know what you're going into because, as I have observed, there are a number of travelers who just book the trip wanting to experience the adventure for the first time.

Travel Factor's Joven Santos at the DENR Office in Botoc, Benguet. Our first stopover before climbing, to get the permits and to attend a compulsory seminar about Mt. Pulag and respecting the environment around it. | Photo by Gestine Campo

Mount Pulag is (still officially) the 2nd highest mountain in the Philippines, at 2,922 meters above sea level (masl), as of press time. Arguably, they say that it is already the 3rd highest mountain, next to Mt. Dulang-dulang in Bukidnon. Mount Pulag is bordered by different provinces, Benguet, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya, and is a National Park, which keeps its environement,  lands, waters and forests protected by law.

First time to try top loading on the jeep. It was both exhilarating and fun! You should try it once in your life, but remember to be careful. 

I was very excited, at the same time a bit nervous because this is a completely new adventure for me, but that priceless view at the summit was all that was playing through my mind, and all that was keeping me going. Also than ks to my brother Jason, who is a mountain climber, I was able to get help in securing proper equipment and in packing all my things inside the bag.

Armed with excitement and thirst for adventure, I headed to Victory Liner Cubao to meet up with our coordinator Joven of Travel Factor, and the rest of the travelers. Our Victory Liner bus to Baguio left at 10:30pm in Cubao. Our itinerary is as follows:

December 27, Friday
21:00H - Meeting at Victory Liner Cubao Bus Terminal
22:30H - ETD to Baguio City via Victory Liner Bus

December 28, Saturday
05:30H - ETA Baguio City (Breakfast)
07:00H - ETD for DENR via chartered jeep
09:30H - ETA DENR (Registration and Orientation)
10:00H - ETD Ranger Station
12:30H - ETA Ranger Station (Lunch)
13:30H - Trekking Proper
16:30H - ETA Campsite (Set camp)
18:30H - Dinner and socials

December 29, Sunday
03:00H - Wake up time
03:40H - Summit Assault
05:30H - ETA Summit
07:00H - Trek to campsite
08:00H - Breakfast
09:00H - Break camp
09:30H - Trek to Ranger Station
12:00H - ETA Ranger Station (Lunch, Wash-up)
15:00H - ETD DENR
16:00H - ETA DENR (Log-out)
19:00H - ETA Baguio City (Dinner)
21:30H - ETD Baguio City

Part 2 will tackle the actual climb and assault to the summit. Stay tuned :)

P.S. I am back and I will start to post more religiously now. 2014 will be a year of many firsts and many opportunities. It will also be a year of travel and of personal achievements. I can't wait to write more often, and to share with you my stories and successes. 

Justin Bieber visits Tacloban City, helps the Philippines

A beacon of hope and generosity, the visit of international music icon Justin Bieber yesterday in Tacloban City was one for the books. Not only did it lighten the spirits of those who were directly affected by the recent super typhoon, but also rallied and reminded everyone that a lot of work has yet to be done. Justin Bieber reminded the whole world that each and everyone can make a difference by helping others. Justin's #GiveBackPhilippines would go a long way in helping rebuild the lives of those in Tacloban, and in other hard-hit areas.

"About to go perform the last #believetour show. The real last one and the most important one of the tour. #GiveBackPhilippines"

 "That was the way to end a tour. We can all make a change and help. Please get involved. #pray4phillipines #GiveBackPhilippines"

Justin Bieber with Smart executives Ramon Isberto, Olan Pena, Tina Mariano; and the Smart engineers who were among the 1st responders in Tacloban after Typhoon Yolanda to restore network & communication.

All the photos used are exclusive and from Smart Communications. Thanks to Smart Communications, PLDT and TV5 for helping Justin Bieber's #GiveBackPhilippines campaign and in bringing him in the Philippines to make this happen. Live more! 

Discover the Difference Smart LTE makes to the iPad

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is now offering fourth generation iPad with Wi-Fi + Cellular and iPad mini with Wi-Fi + Cellular. Smart is offering these new iPads with a range of attractive data plans that allow customers to connect to its fast Smart LTE network at speeds of up to 42Mbps.

As the digital media guy of El Nido Resorts, I need to be connected even on the go, even when I am traveling around, to check on my social networks and to update them. I am glad I switched to Smart because I get only the most reliable network to be wired, even on the go. I have been happy with my Smart iPhone LTE and its connection ever since I switched. I can imagine what a #SmartLTEiPad Mini would do to help me!

The wifi+4G #SmartLTEiPad mini would really come in handy because it’s easier to carry and I can stay connected even when I go to El Nido, or to other destinations. I do not have to worry about blogging and tweeting on the go because Smart has a wide coverage thanks to 4X More Fiber Power.

The fourth generation iPad features a gorgeous 9.7-inch Retina display, new Apple-designed A6X chip, FaceTime HD camera and ultrafast wireless performance. While the iPad mini is a completely new iPad design that is 23 percent thinner and 53 percent lighter than the third generation iPad, features a stunning 7.9-inch Multi-Touch display, FaceTime HD and 5 megapixel iSight cameras, ultrafast wireless performance* and an incredible 10-hours of battery life.** Both fourth generation iPad and iPad mini come with iOS 6, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 200 new features.

Customers can buy the new iPads at Smart Stores all over the country. For more information on plans please visit www.smart.com.ph/getmini

 

Smart continues to expand the country’s LTE network, bringing the world’s fastest mobile broadband to almost 1,000 LTE-enabled sites located in over 115 cities and municipalities across the Philippines. View the full list of areas where iPad users can enjoy the power of Smart LTE at www.smart.com.ph/lte.

Smart co-founder and Chief Wireless Advisor Orlando B. Vea shares the excitement of iPad lovers all over the country as Smart begins to offer the fourth generation iPad and the iPad mini WiFi + Cellular.

“These devices deserve nothing less than Smart LTE. Not only is Smart LTE faster and more reliable, but it is also the Philippines’ most widely-available LTE service,” according to Vea.

* Network speeds are dependent on carrier networks. Check with your carrier for details.
** Battery life depends on device settings, usage and other factors. Actual results vary. 

"Bite Into The Better Network" campaign of SMART Communications

Derek Ramsay, Anne Curtis and apl.de.ap have one thing in common. They are connected with the better network - SMART. Together with Ramon Bautista, Luis Manzano and Cristalle Belo, they invite you to live more and bite into the better network. Watch out for this!!! :)

Live More with SMART Bro WiFi Plug-It

Smart Communications has released the newest mobile internet experience through the SMART Bro WiFi Plug-it (Huawei E355) which supports 3G+WiFi, meaning it has a WiFi access point which enables you to share your internet with other devices.

The Smart WiFi Plug-It can reach to a whopping 7.2 mbps speed.  What’s more, it can be plugged with your FREE car cigarette adapter or home plug adapter (choose which freebie to get) and connect up to 5 WiFi-ready gadgets, making it the perfect companion for barkada or family roadtrips! For a traveler like myself, who's always on the go, this is really sleek and handy. You can also stick it into your laptop USB port like a regular Plug-it.

Now, with the Smart WiFi Plug-It, you can easily check your own social media networks like Twitter and Facebook, or send e-mails, while on the road. With this new WiFi Plug-It, I am sure that your mobile experience is always on a roll! I dare you to try it, and you will be amazed on how you can live more with this stick.

Check the following specs for more details:

• One-time fee: P3,495
• Usage fee: Pay per use. P10 for every 30 mins. Or avail of any usage package  (Unlisurf, Per Minute, Prepaid Lifestyle).
• Freebies: Preloaded with 240 internet hours and 400 SMS to Smart and Sun Subscribers (valid for 10 days)
• Connection: via USB, via WiFi
• Speed: Up to 7.2 Mbps
• Lock-in Period: None
• Application requirements: None

System requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and 7, Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger), Leopard, Snow Leopard, and Lion.
• Hardware requirements must meet the recommended specifications of the operation system
• USB 2.0
• 200mb free hard disk space to install files
• Any WiFi enabled device with WLAN 802.11 b/g/n standard and internet browser

Lady Gaga's The Born This Way Ball Live in Manila

Thanks to @SmartCares and Abbie for the tickets to the #SmartLadyGaga The Born This Way Ball at the newly opened SM Mall of Asia Arena last May 21. It was a 2-day sold-out concert, which had its own controversies and exaggerations, but it went so incredibly well, no one could have stopped Lady Gaga's awesomeness. I didn't expect it to be that good - the opening (DJ Zedd), the production, the set, the effects, Lady Gaga herself, her costumes, her moves, everything. Good job and congratulations :) Here are some photos we took during the concert.