Last April 15 was my second time to attend The Free Postal & Metropolitan Theater Heritage Walking Tour by Filipinas Stamp Collector’s Club. I was surprised that there were a lot of attendees this month, approximately 40 plus compare to 15 last January. I am taking advantage of this free tour because there are talks that the government is in talks with the foreigners to convert The Post Office Building into a luxury hotel.

THE POST OFFICE BUILDING

I heard that it is The Fullerton Group of Singapore who will lease it for 50 years. The Fullerton Hotel in Singapore is similar with the architectural design of The Post Manila (you can check it here). It would be interesting to see a five-star hotel with a lots of jeepneys and buses flying in front and a polluted river at the back.

THE MANILA METROPOLITAN THEATER

I didn’t joined the group inside The Manila Metropolitan Theater because we were too many and also give chance to the first timers to explore the interior of the building. Since it was only 4PM that time, I decided to have my on photo walk. I usually do this whenever I don’t have anything to do or just bored at home. Good thing that I live near Intramuros and Binondo.

POST OFFICE BUILDING VIEW FROM PASIG RIVER

I started shooting the back of the Post Office Building. I love how the color of this structure turns into golden yellow when illuminated by sun during near sunset.

MANILA BAY SUNSET

I also went to Manila Bay to capture its famous sunset.  I was lucky to see another breath taking sun down. The sun that time was like a great ball of fire coming down the sea with Mt. Mariveles and Mt. Samat at the background.

VIEW FROM HARBOR SQUARE SUN DOWN

HARBOR SQUARE FERRIES

After that, I walked to Harbor Square to have a refreshing Iced Coffee and also shoot the buildings of Manila Bay during sun down. There were also photographers in the area. I saw a couple of them looking and laughing at me when they saw me shooting with a square object  in front of my lens. I just smiled back at them, for sure they don’t know what I am doing.

VIEW FROM HARBOR SQUARE AT NIGHT

Harbor Square’s post card worthy view is quite famous to Manila based photographers. Its location is also good for Night Photography. I remember shooting here after I bought my very first tripod (box included).

MANILA CITY HALL LIGHT TRAILS

I also shoot the Manila City Hall going back home. I stood in the middle of the island and braved the buses and jeepneys. Extra careful of doing this because there are a lot of hold-uppers and snatchers in the area.

MANILA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL AT NIGHT

My last stop was at The Manila Cathedral. I rested a little bit at the fountain and observed the Guardia Civil (Intramuros’ Guard) on duty. These guards prohibit photographers to shoot DSLR with tripods. I was also on the look out for a possible bad elements in the area. After some calculations that I will never be caught by the roaming guards, I installed my DLSR and tripod and began shooting.

It was a productive photo walk and will do it again for sure in the near future.

Self flagellation is a Lenten practice observed in a Catholic country like the Philippines. The Flagellation (in Christian context) refers to the flagellation of Jesus Christ, an event in the Passion of Christ before his Crucifixion. Despite the condemnation of the Catholic Church, many still practice this extreme form of self-mortification because of Panata (religious vow).

I already witnessed this kind of act last year in Angeles, Pampanga. Most of us know that Pampanga is very popular with this kind of tradition during Lenten Season but there is one province in Luzon that makes this practice unique.

In the town of Infanta, Quezon, approximately 4-5 hours drive north east of Manila. Practitioner wears an outfit consists of floral headdress called Tukarol, a skirt made of of dried banana leaves called Saya.

My friend who resides in Infanta told me that the self flagellation starts as early as 2 in the morning of Good Friday. We arrived there at around 4am, we were planning to take a nap for a while inside the car parked beside the church but there was a strange noise outside.

The flagellants just passed by our car and they were heading inside the church’s compound. Most of the time, the church was their first stop, they will kneel and pray at the entrance. Another unique act I witnessed that some flagellants entered and exited the church’s compound like they were dancing. Technically, they were galloping.

After that, they continue walking along the streets still hitting their backs while people followed them to snap photos.

On some occasions, they would stop to take the foods and drinks offered by locals.

By 8am, the activity comes to an end as the flagellants wash themselves at sea.

From the airport, we took the train bound to Chinatown where our hostel is near. We exited the station in the middle of Pagoda Street going to the South Bridge Road when I saw Sri Mariamman Temple. You will not miss this because this structure is truly a head turner with  lots of tourists and visitors gathering around its perimeter.

Pagoda Street corner South Bridge Road

temple's side wall along Pagoda Street

I stared at the temple for a few minutes, thought of shooting couple of photos but decided to look for our hostel first to get some rest. We were a little bit tired travelling with our packs and yeah, the sky light was not good for some snap shots.

temple's main entrance flock by tourists and worshippers

I came back here to shoot during our last day of stay, it is actually few hours before we go back to Manila. It was still dark and girlfriend was still sleeping when I left the hostel. It is best to shoot the temple’s facade during sunrise or morning because it is facing east (same with Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum).

Gopuram

Sri Marimman Temple is the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore. It was founded by Naraina Pillai in 1827. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for her power of curing illnesses and disease. The structure is inspired by Dravidian style of architecture, which consists of pyramid-shaped temples with huge towers of intricately carved stones. The Gopuram or the entrance’s tower is the most distinctive feature of the temple. It is covered by figuratively sculptures of Gods, Goddesses and Mythological Beasts.  It is included in the National Monuments of Singapore because of its historic, traditional and architectural value.

temple's main door studded with gold bells

Like other Hindu Temples, Sri Mariamman Temple observes certain rituals and practices like removing the footwear before entering  and dress a bit conservatively as a sign of respect.

temple hall from the outside

The temple is open daily. Admission is free but there is charge of 3 Singapore Dollar if you want to shoot inside which I didn’t avail.

Though I am a Catholic, I have this fascination with Buddhism, Hinduism and Temples. We all know that Singapore is a multicultural country dominated by Chinese, Indians and Malays so I took advantage of visiting their house of worship. I came across Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum while wandering around the Chinatown District of Singapore.

The temple's facade / main entrance

The four storey temple/museum with roof top and basement is based on the Tang Dynasty architectural style and the principles of Buddhist Mandala.

Tang Dynasty was regarded by historian as the strongest empire in the world during the eight century while The Buddhist Mandala is a type of art with spiritual and ritual significance.

It is amazing that this structure was completed in just two years (2005-2007). I read it on the net that the construction worth is approximately S$62 million.

Hundred Dragons - Maitreya Hall

Upon entering the main entrance, you will see the Hundred Dragons – Maitreya Hall. This is where services dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha take place.

One Hundred Buddhas

The side walls of the Hundred Dragons – Maitreya Hall are decorated with one hundred miniature Buddhas.  They’re for adoption with corresponding amount.

Universal Wisdom / Avalokitesvara Hall

At the back of the Hundred Dragons – Maitreya Hall is the Universal Wisdom Hall – Avalokitesvara Hall. The statue of Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara has six arms with gold complexion and is placed in the center for worshiping purposes.

Maha-Shtama-Prapta

Acala and Amitabha

Along the sides of the halls are Zodiac Protectors. There are corresponding  protectors for each Lunar Zodiac animal like the photos above; Maha-Shtama-Prapta protector of people born in the year of the horse, Acala for the year of the rooster and Amitabha for the year of the dog like me.

Manjusri Hall, Aranya Gallery and Lotus Heart Tea House can be found on the second floor and Nagapuspa Buddhist Museum on the third.

The Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic Chamber is located at the fourth floor.  The gold Sacred Buddha’s Tooth Relic Stupa is the center of focus in this room. Photography is not allowed inside the hall.

At level 5, also known as Roof Garden. Its is filled with different plants and Ten Thousand Buddha Pavillion is located in the middle.

Inside the Ten Thousand Buddhas Pavillion

Amitabha Buddha (or Buddha of Limitless Life)

Inside the center of the pavillion is the Vairocana Prayer Wheel. Every turn of the wheel represents a recital of scripture and mantra.

Vairocana Buddha Prayer Wheel

praying at the main entrance

Buddha Toothe Relic Temple and Museum is located at South Ridge Road (corner Sago Lane) ,  Singapore. Opening hours is from 7:00am – 7:00pm including Public Holidays. Admission is free. Please wear appropriate clothes to show respect; no bare backs, sleeveless, off-shoulders, shorts or mini-skirts. Non vegetarian food and pets are also prohibited inside.

THE MERLION PARK

Year 2008 when I picked up my first DSLR and started travelling.  I’ve been to the picturesque Batanes, the elusive Basilan, the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo but have never been outside the Philippines. It is really on my plan this year to visit other nations but not Singapore. It was supposed to be Indonesia because I wanted to see Borobudur. It was a sudden changed of plan because one of my most favorite bands, Foo Fighters will be playing in Singapore. Unfortunately, the tour was cancelled a week before the show because of Dave Grohl’s medical condition. I was really upset but I can only complain to myself. I am just a fan and Dave’s health is more important. Yeah, he is a famous rock star but he is only human like us.

I still pursued the trip even without the concert, airfare cannot be refunded anyways. I spent my first night shooting the city. I took this opportunity because I can’t do this here in the Philippines. Unlike in Singapore, there are no prohibitions; no security guards will stop you from shooting the buildings and no worries if there are snatchers or hold uppers.

SINGAPORE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

ESPLANADE DRIVE

THE FULLERTON HOTEL

MARINA BAY SANDS

MARINA PROMENADE

It was supposed to be a Mt. Pulag climb last weekend but due to a not so good weather forecast and advise from my reliable contact there not to push through, I am glad that we didn’t. The original plan was replaced by this trip because I was really hesitant to pursue the climb. I’ve been to Pulag 6 times (5 via Akiki Trail) and had my most terrifying experience when a sudden change of weather happened during our climb in December 2006.  I don’t want to take the gamble again especially when I have first timers with me.

Buruwisan Falls is located in Mt. Romelo, often mistaken as Mt. Famy.  It is one of the five waterfalls found in Sierra Madre Range.  Buruwisan is the most famous of all because of it accessibility.

The height of Buruwisan Falls is estimated at 180 ft. It is very ideal for rappelling and landscape photography. It also has cold and clear water which is good for bathing.

The trek going to waterfalls is  an easy 2 hours hike but when it rains and trail becomes muddy (read as: really really muddy).  I just experienced my muddiest trek last weekend.

Although the trek can be done by day trip, an overnight stay is more recommended to maximize the visit and have an ample time to explore the area. If you’re lazy to bring a camping tent, nipa huts are available for rent.

The jagged mountain

My first climb of Mt. Batulao was 9 years ago. It was a night trek with my college friends with the help of a Mapua Mountaineer friend, Lee (may he rest in peace).  Second was in 2008, I organized a climb in TipidPC.com Mountaineering Thread. We took the newly opened trail that is very popular now because of its challenging but scenic terrain.

Last Friday (02/03/11), my friend Allan sent me a message via BBM “Bai wala tayo climb before Pulag?” Since I needed a practice climb for Mt. Pulag on the 18^th, I replied that I am good to go tomorrow. The day hike finally happened after two years. The gang planned to do this two years ago but because of our different schedules the hike didn’t push through.

We took the 430am trip of San Agustin Bus at Park Ride Lawton bound to Nasugbu. We arrived at the jump-off point at around 6:30am and ate breakfast at the carinderia along the road. The weather was foggy and chilly. It was favorable for us since the mountain trail is notorious for being exposed to direct sunlight.

The mountain summit was covered by clouds when we first saw it. There was a little drizzle but a believe they’re just fog or low lying clouds. There was a little bit of excitement on my part because I can already see the beautiful jagged trail from afar.

The new trail going up is gradual and well established. Some stretch is steep, about 2-3 feet wide. Climbers with vertigo will surely have a hard time crossing  those.

Wanna hear how strong the wind is? Check the video below

There are several campsites you can choose from. Two of the biggest campsites are no. 7 and 8 . The grounds are well established and can accommodate no less than 10 tents.

After the easy trek up to the Camp 7, we crossed the steeper trail going to the summit. The wind became stronger that made our pace slow down a little bit.

We made a detour before the camp 9. We took the forest trail, covered by trees that serve as shade from the sun. I think this is a safer route compare to the other one.

The stretch after the Camp 10 is tricky. The trail is made of loose soils and rocks. We used both our hands and feet just to climb up to the established section of the trail.

We reached the summit at around 11:40am. I enjoyed the 360 view while eating my sandwich, took some photos and had a little chat with fellow climbers.

Our day hike coincided with the 4th anniversary of the opening of the new trail. Locals are treated the campers to a feast in the night socials. We met a couple of locals carrying pigs, chickens and goat going the campsite.

It is a good trekking day for us. The weather really cooperated and met new friends along the trail. I will surely go back here for an overnight camp. The sunset here is lovely.

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On our way down, I saw a signage installed from Camp 5-10. As I scrutinized the marker, I realized that the photo in the background is mine. You can check the photo http://roadworthyman.com/2011/10/13/sawtooth-trail/.  This photo was used a couple of times without my  knowledge. Two mountaineering groups used this in their posters and the Mt. Batulao profile picture in Facebook. There is a lifestyle & adventure e-publication who also used the same photo without my permission and the worst part is, they cropped my watermark. Good thing there is DMCA. I reported it to the authority  and the website was suspended until they removed my photo.

I can give my photos if it is for a good cause. We, travel / landscape photographers risk ourselves and our equipment from injury just to get a good spot and capture good photos. Please don’t steal or use our hard work.

Kids doing the Lion Dance

January 23, 2012 marks the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year. Chinese New Year is the most important Chinese holiday, celebrated by billions of people around the world.  Each of the Chinese New Year Calendar is represented by one of twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac. For 2012, it’s the Dragon.  It is the creature of myth and legend. A symbol of good fortune and power.

I went to Binondo Chinatown last Monday to witness the celebration there.  This is the first time that the Chinese New Year here is a holiday.  I wasn’t surprised with large crowd because I was also there the day before to scout and feel the ambiance of the place.

The mood is very festive. There are lion and dragon dance moving to the beat of the drums,  people dancing with Ati-atihan, the restaurants and food establishments are jam-packed.

I also visited Kuan Kong Temple to pay homage to Kuang Kong and to observe our Filipino-Chinese brothers and sisters how they pray.

There are also a lot of photographers in the area. I saw different types of camera DSLR, SLR, Rangefinders, Lomo, Micro 4/3, Point & Shoot even tablets and cellphones. There is a joke that day  “Mas marami pa ang photographers kesa sa mga Intsik”.

The streets are also filled with vendors of lucky charms. I really wanted to buy the dragon puppet (see photo below) but I don’t know where to place it in my room. I also read somewhere that 2012 is not a good year for Dog people since Dog and Dragon have a fighting relationship.

I admit that I am not into festivals  but this one is an exception. I can’t explain why but I am really fascinated with the Chinese cultures and traditions.

Happy Chinese New Year Everyone!

Ortigas Center - 02/16/10

Ortigas Center is the second most important central business district after Makati. It is a 4,000 hectare land known as Hacienda de Mandaloyon in 1930s. It was a virtual wasteland when acquired by Ortigas & Company but now a home to many skyscrapers, famous offices, shopping malls and restaurants.

Ortigas is sorrounded by of Pasig, Mandaluyong,  San Juan and Quezon City.

Photography Gears: Nikon D80 + Nikkor 18-70mm
Settings: 18mm, 30 secs, f8, ISO 100

Makati Central Business District - Makati City - 12/09/09

Makati is the financial center of the Philippines. It was Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, the first Governor-General of the Philippines who spotted the area in 1570′s. The name “Makati” came from the word “kati”, which means tide, referring to the tide of Pasig River located north of Makati.

Photography Gears: Nikon D80 + Nikkor 18-70mm
Settings: 18mm, 30 secs, f7.1, ISO 125