Saturday Afternoon at The Balay Negrense

T’was a Saturday afternoon of the Masskara Festival ’09 in Bacolod City, but we found ourselves ruminating at Don Victor F. Gaston Ancestral House in Silay City. Had a great time musing over how the sugar barons had lived a fine living in the past. Though, have been in this place before but it’s nicer the second time around.

Just found out that colonial lifestyle highly observed separation between two sexes. Real conservative, huh! How’s that? In the house, you’ll see the majestic stair as the focal point. It has a grand staircase leading to the upper floor wherein there's a stop for a quick rest or paseo, and then it was split into two stairways going up to the second floor. Each stairways was used accordingly by both sexes.

All the while, I thought it was a mere passageway protocol, an entrance/exit or up/down scheme just like the escalator in the mall. But, it’s not. The two sexes should go up and down in their own respective stairways. Forgot to ask if the women used the right or the left stairways. So, therefore, I conclude that the separation of male and female at the entrance of all malls in the city were patterned from this. Hahaha, just a pun!

It’s indeed a big house, but they had only one or two common comfort and bathrooms for the entire household of at least 15 persons. But, oh well, they were able to managed it.

I’ll not expound any details here. It’s for you to discover. There's a lot to see in this place. It's all worthwhile visiting.

Oh, by the way, the house is for rent for any special occasions.

Venue: The Balay Negrense Museum, 5 de Noviembre, Silay City

Accessibility : High via public transport @ P10 from Bacolod City

Playing Creepy at THE RUINS

Oh my, this place is so lovely! Perfect for any romantic moments you can think of. The cool green lawn & misty fountain give a fresh and lively setting.

The structure need not be painted on canvass. Just a click of the cam, voila! you have an instant painting as if done by an excellent painter artist. The mansion has a leer of a live painted material. So, elegant a structure.

Much articles about its history have been published. The net is full of those. Plus, the nice pictures. So, expect no elaboration here. Better discover it yourself.

During our visit, I brought my black long dress for gimmicks. Actually, I also used it at the beach for churvaness ek-ek. Anyways, one of the staff offered to take my pictures. Too bad only few were nicely acceptable. He was wondering what I have in mind since it's three months away to get to the Halloween Day to have such a creepy look. Well, for his info my wardrobe is all black. Goth, morose, creepy or not. I like it.One more, my companion sought a broomstick for my use as a wicked lady flying around the mansion. Then, we had a group pix ala “Addams family”.

If you wish to visit there, bring any attire to make your photo-ops more cool and funny recalling. I suggest white color to play contrast with the mansion. Or, if you want creepy shots. Wear white make-up and white long dress, then make a slow approach to the camera as if a white lady or so scaring the cameraman. Joke!

Comes halloween, maybe it's nice to make a real gimmick at the cemetery. This time I'll put on black make up. Wanna join!

Venue: The Ruins, Talisay City, Negros Occidental

Is it really the Church of the Angry Christ?

The Church of the Angry Christ as they tagged it. But, I beg to disagree. My first impression was not like that. And never will be. I see Christ here as the greatest lover of all creations. I know in the Holy Scripture Christ became angry to the extent of crying and upturning the tables at the Temple. But it was borne out of love.
I applaud the artist for being able to express how unfathomable God's love can be. We know our faith teaches us that Love is revealed by God through incarnation, by sending Christ, perfect God and perfect man, to rule, preach and redeem the world. The painting shows Christ with outstretched hands and burning heart. This heart of Christ is filled with infinite treasures of love, mercy and affection. The fiery heart assures the richness of his love for us, forge and purified with fire. Just like a human heart, it is source, expression and ultimate basis, of one's innermost thoughts, words, desires, and actions. With God's heart, we see certainty of God's love and the truth of his commitment to us. His look is not angry, he maybe stern, but a strong character showing an overflowing love and affection for each one of us. His eyes, filled with compassion, desiring to want all mankind be redeemed. The outstretched hands of Christ is an invitation for each of us to live a life of grace assuring the richness of the his most sacred heart.

Gazing upon him before the altar, you'll get to reflect how immense His love for all of us, in him we find peace and joy, true and unwavering love.

So, I'd rather call this wonderful place as the Church of Christ the Tremendous Lover.


Note: St. Joseph Parish, VMC Compound, Victorias City, Negros Occidental.

Carbin Reef, a must see place!

At last, Carbin Reef! after almost a year of wishing to be in this place. Good thing the month of August 2009 was full of Monday holidays. This was my only chance to go to places overnight without compromising other commitments.

Carbin Reef is also known to be the Sagay Marine Reserve Sanctuary. It has a huge, tongue-shaped, creamy white sandbar. No trees. So, don't forget your sunblocks and umbrella.
Its clear water is perfect for swimming, boating, jet-skiing and snorkeling. That's why, you must be equipped with the necessary swimming gears, especially the goggles. In fact, it's my first time to see a sting ray. I mean live one from the wilds. I always see it for sale along the street in Tigbauan, Iloilo or displayed in Ocean Park.
We arrived around 3pm from Molocaboc Island. Since it was an unplanned trip, there were only five of us plus the guide. We had at least three hours of intense swimming and photo-ops. We left around 6pm, to see how the sunset would cast its darkness in Sagay. Since, its zero amenities there, we left wet. We just dried up in the boat. It took at least 30minutes from the reef to Old Sagay port. Had dinner at Enteng's. Then, finished off swimming at the pool of Balay Kauswagan, a hostel owned by the Sagay City government. Then, had a goodnight sleep enough for us to be ready for the following day's adventure and trip back to Iloilo City.

Typhoon Ondoy makes me proud as Filipino

From the Book of Job we read a very inspiring story of a God-fearing man named Job about suffering and disgrace. He was a father of a large family and had received abundant blessings during his life. He was a prosperous farmer with a lot of sheep, livestock and crops. According to beliefs, there was a direct relationship between leading a virtuous life and prosperity here on earth. The story really showed that God is pleased with Job. But Satan came into the picture and challenged Job's fidelity to God. Satan predicted that Job will abandon Him when put to the test. So, the devil strips Job with all his possessions starting with his children who perished in a disaster. Job gave his complete acceptance to God's will in both prosperity and tribulations. In fact, became even more faithful for drawing a wonderful spiritual treasure amidst misery. Of course, Satan was dismayed that he inflicted Job with loathsome sores from head to foot which is even worse than material loss. But, Job remained steadfast despite the words of his wife and friends who believed that God must have cursed him. Job had proved that his relationship with God was not dependent on whether he had a good time or bad time.
Human suffering is never palatable. Moreso now, that we are attached with the instant everything and comfortable living. We despise sufferings as much as possible we evade it. We hate those daily contradictions, distress, and hardships. We feared it to come. Too bad it really did come. Sometimes, we reacted badly and to the extent rebelling. Most would attribute it to the one up above, blind to his own faults or misgivings. For whatever it is, sufferings are part of our life as pilgrim here on earth. Just a reminder, our road is not all to Mt. Tabor but oftentimes to Mt. Calvary or Golgotha. For some people, with gifted or acquired faith, may have peacefully accepted these truths, would even welcome it in full submission no matter how hurtful it is. They see that it is God's caress like a scalpel in a surgeon's hand to take out what hurts or impedes us to good health.
Typhoon Ondoy is a natural calamity. Disastrous it may be, but the damage could have been lesser than what we have now had we been responsibly taking care of our environment. Well, I don't want to dwell in that issue. This, I presumed, a lesson learned to those who are in the authority. Wish they have the consciousness and the intiative to take the matter seriously.Amidst all these calamities, typhoon Ondoy makes me proud as a Filipino. In fact, it's more than the European and US recessions, that in just few hours it stripped off it's victims all it's resources, properties and some even life in just one blow. Am proud for those victims who know how to draw out goodness out of the tragedy that Ondoy brought. It's very Filipino to be cheerful and humorous during the difficult times. Magtulungan, "kapit-bisig" at magpatawa, yan ang Pilipino. The sanguine side of each us. These traits are associated with our deep faith and love of God. Each of us can be like Job. Not mindful if we are stripped of everything as long as we are still alive, have our family, friends and God is with us. The latter is what matters most.
Now, I just received a text brigade appealing to God to deviate the way of Typhoon Pepeng. Dear Lord, we beg you to spare us with this another calamity. Please do protect us your beloved Filipinos. We appeal to you like how Moses had appealed to you.
It's now time for us to pray for our country and for each one. To be strong, resourceful and helpful in order to cope well in this tragedy. Was told, that our Lady told Emma de Guzman, an OFW visionary, that the Philippines will receive abundant blessings in 2010-2015. We just have to live a simple life. We look forward on to that.
I'd like to share this prayer 'Acceptance of God's Will": In all things may the most holy, the most just, and most lovable will of God be done, praised, and exalted above all for ever. Your will be done, O Lord, your will be done. The Lord has given, the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."

Life is a Beach!

Not a month without a beach! That's my yearly goal. Last January, we went to Antique and pass by Boracay just to sleep, but didn't go swimming. Just heard mass the following day. Then, came February in Bugtong Bato, San Joaquin. Big waves spoiled our plan, but photo-ops made our day gay. We went to SEAFDEC Mariculture Station in March. Ouch, no swimming ground, but photo-ops again. April, back to Boracay for some business. Was wishing to see Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt during their rumored visit at Shangrila. Had a quick swimming, then went home in the afternoon. April at Guisi Point. Visited our old friends there, went boating to our favorite cave with waterfalls. May in Ave Maria-Alubihod, Guimaras, then in Anhawan Resort in Oton, Iloilo for our company outing. Another blow in Carles in the northern part of Iloilo. Of course, have to admit that there are really months that the sea is not lovable starting June towards December. I only watched movie "Penelope" in my friends home theater in June for having beached a lot in May. Dunno, where I went last July. I think I reserved it for August, where I went to at least four beaches. First, in San Juan, Batangas, but the beach was not that lovely than I expected. Batangas beaches are great except the San Juan Strait. Well, the beaches that I like in Batangas are the mostly in Nasugbo like Kawayan Cove and Tali Beach, then Anilao and near Lemery the RockPort/Dive and Trek. The last beach I visited was full of seaweeds. Since, I was not happy. I really made it a point to go to Guimaras as soon as I get back to Iloilo. Once again, Ave Maria-Alubihod Beach, Guimaras - where I poured in all my frustrations there. Guimaras is the most cheapskate adventure which is friendly to my pocket. Then, the following Sunday we went to Anhawan Resort. This time due to a family obligation. After that, we went to Sagay, Negros Occidental for an island hopping. Carbin Reef-Molocaboc Island. T'was really great an experience. Then, I decided to behave this September. Maybe just a dip in the pool or watch movie. October may be an island hopping in Concepcion. Well, it all depends with the weather. Oh well, how I wish life is always like this.

memories in the high seas...

Way back in 1993,our journey to and fro Iloilo City and our hometown in Polomolok, South Cotabato started. Moneywise and most accessible means was through the high seas. The trip took two-three days with stop over in either Cotabato City or in Zamboanga City. Of course, we liked it so much. It became our venue for reunion and getting new friends from Manila down to Mindanao. For instance, via MV Zamboanga, t'was a small passenger ship, that I practically came to know all the people aboard. But, got an embarrassing experience someone said hi and I just stared blankly, to realized we just had our pictures taken together. Sorry, I forgot.

Of, course, got here some adventures and gimmicks to tell. For example, have dared to get a side trip to Zamboanga City, joining a group whom I really didn't know to Pasonanca Park wishing to see the tree houses that has a poem "The Tree" by Joyce Kilmer on it. To my dismay, saw only one. Just realized, I was not listening well to our history teacher, that it was singular, no "s" at the end of the word "house". Duh!
Got also a playing "con" story with my close friend in college... outsmarted the inspection crew in the ship, switching tickets as to hide one of the passengers we knew who had no ticket on board. After which, we got an ice cream for our successful mischief. Whew! Never again.
Of course, we also experienced Christmas and New Year's celebration on board. We all just slept, listening to the crews enjoying themselves with their simple fireworks.

The trips were not good all the time. There were times, big waves would hit and flood the ship. One time the ship tilted, maybe it was overloaded or the loading was not even, meaning heavier on the other side. We just don't mind it, we laughed among ourselves that we walked like a drunken man. Unmindful, free-spirited, come-what may, we reached our destinations.

Taking the ferries, to and fro, has its comfort and discomfort, especially on peak season, when fare were high that the only accommodation you can afford with was the economy, the cheapest, esp. with Superferry. What we do, we look for friends billeted at the class A or Cabin accommodation. After the ticket inspection, we flocked there and spent the whole night playing cards. Of course, most of us won't sleep. Some stayed at the bar and disco till wee hours. Then, asleep the whole day through.

After years in college, I would still take the ferry going back home. Sometimes, with the intention of passing by Zamboanga, despite threats of whatever it was, to see the replica of our Lady of Pillar from Zaragosa. The last ferry trip that I had was when I took a land trip going home via Cagayan de Oro.

How, I missed these trips. I like the seas so much. Seeing the stillness of the sea, watching dolphins and other sea creatures, makes me want to be always in the middle of the sea. Except, amidst turbulence. Jack and Rose story is not welcome here, tsk!tsk!tsk! But, deep swimming in the middle of the sea is what I've been dreaming of, but not in that tragic scenario.

For sure, my friends and classmates in high school and college, have their stories to tell too. Varying and more colorful! T'was an experience of a lifetime.

sicuti fur...like a thief in the night

Sometimes, death is like that. Unexpected. Sudden. Unwanted, like a thief in the night.

But, some are also expected. Desired. Anticipated, like the setting of the sun.

Was kinda sadden over the passing away of somebody I know who was about to retire next month. Saw him last Friday, actually just his back. Then, was told this morning that he died in cardiac arrest.

Death is not an end, but a change mode of ones being from mortal to immortal. Life is a journey towards its destination either in fullness of life with God in heaven or eternal damnation in hell. No one can escape this reality. Each soul faces its own particular judgement as soon as it separates from the mortal body.

Man's finality should not be an either/or. God, the Creator, has wanted each man to be in full communion with Him in heaven. That's why, He sent His Son to redeem man despite everything, i.e. sinfulness. Love of God and living the life of grace faithfully is what He has wanted from all men.

The world is wonderful, so is life.
More wonderful, having God at the central.
Most wonderful, possessing Him in heaven.

Life is a choice, so is finality.

Money Wise: Earning, Spending, Savings, Investing

Money management has many differing schools of thought, it depends upon the kind of lifestyle and attitude one may have. There is the fundamental equation of economics and accounting, i.e., disposable income- expenditure = savings. Another equation is, as practiced by most Chinese, disposable income - savings = expenditure. These two perspectives have there pros and cons. Crumpling down the myopic wall, these two can be mixed like wine bringing out the best concoction to ones taste.

Money wise is a rethinking process on how that almighty dollar be elegantly and responsibly accumulated, used, preserved, reserved and expanded for a secured and better future, not just for oneself but also for the good of the society. The process starts with an honest review of actual earnings against expenditures. Most would realized, if not scandalized, that spending are more than what they could pay for. It plunges beyond zero to scarcity and indebtedness. Isn't it disheartening? But, see it as a challenge to make it smoothly surging up. The attached sheet is a personal financial statement to guide oneself in the actual review of the present status and for the future financial plans. Before filling up the latter, take a look first at the following:

Bottomless Pocket

People work in order to earn. May they be as an employee or entrepreneur. Why so? Of course, to live life to the fullest here on earth. Every move means a penny from the pocket. Moreover, because of personal economic responsibility, an obligation to support oneself today and in the future. Also, to achieve financial freedom having that capacity to address needs and wants confidently and easily. In other words, to be appropriately wealthy. Then, to help ones neighbor starting within the immediate family towards the bigger community. So, how to increase ones earnings? Well, look for a job and company that pays well. Work your best as to get promoted, bingo! the pay will also increase. Of course, as an employee, the company only pays for eight hours daily. After office, one can get some extra jobs or sidelines, small business maybe or part time jobs. Nowadays, there are a lot of it available, one just have to be smart, creative, open-minded and diligent to venture. If earnings increases, one would find it hard to close ones mouth smiling with all teeth out. At least, it's a positive problem this time.

Splurge Not

Real challenge for everyone, especially for the shopaholics. Isn't it? First, one must have a budget plan. Here enters the above mentioned future personal financial statement plan. The budget plan helps allocate earnings to a particular expenditure or in other way around. It answers to how much goes to what expenditures. Then, have a buying discipline. It really pays to live a spirit of poverty, a simple life. So, away with the tempting credit cards! Use it for emergency purposes. Never to go shopping without a list, in a low mood and empty stomach. Else, one will end up seeking consolations through impulsive buying, which oftentimes regretted. Have a smart buy! Make a canvass, compare prices, quality check, bulk and discount buying. Review some unnecessary expenditures to cut down, eliminated or look for alternatives. Of course, to take care of the material things one has already acquired. Some stuff may last a lifetime if well take cared of.

Dollar A Day

Earnings positive, expenditures are manageable. There comes a savings. How to do that further? Set a realistic, achievable savings goal. This can be simple like a vacation or as gigantic as having a house and lot. It all depends as long as it motivates, empowers and gives a sense of accomplishment. Make a savings scheme plan, one can open a passbook savings account in the nearby recommended savings bank. Avail the company's retirement plan, if there is. Personally, one can have a piggy bank for near future extraordinary expenses.

Multiply

Panicking for savings spilling-over? Foster an enterprising spirit. Open a business or a franchise. This way one can generate employment and help the society. Recommending “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” for reading. If not, look for any investment portfolio may it be a bank for time-deposits, an insurance company or a stock brokerage. Look for a sound investment adviser. Always make a background check before investing

Living life in this wonderful world is beautiful. More beautiful when in wealth and abundance but not superfluous. Just a reminder that life is not all money or wealth. As a famous line goes “what does it profit a man, if he gains the whole world but losses his soul”. One must look up to God as the Father of all, the Divine Providence. Money wise is nothing new it is just as old as the Gospel. There many stories like the parable of the talents that talks about earnings. As St. Escriva wrote in the Forge, 523, “ Do not fix your heart on anything that passes away. Imitate Christ, who became poor for us, and had nowhere to lay his head. Ask him to give you, in the midst of the world, a real detachment, a detachment that has nothing to soften it.”
Note: Worksheet to follow. Cannot be uploaded.

The Best of Clay at Pettyjohn's Pottery

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What it is to be a clay? Pretty ugly, huh! Kasi, PUTIK! Dirty and sticky. Makes ones feet dirty and road impassable during rainy season. But, to a potter artists like Mr. Jon Pettyjohn and his wife Tessy, it is a precious sticky earth. Fortunately, this couple has great talents to draw priceless stoneware out of this stuff.

Kinda skeptic, at first

"Our Lord and our Lady, please forgive me for being cynical to the stories of Emma."
I was kinda skeptical the first time I heard of her. But, my group of friends in Manila talked so much of her that I caught myself listening intently. More so, when we went to Mt. Of Salvation in Caleruega, Batulao, Batangas last August 11, 2009. Been in the area in 2006,in fact my friend told me to go there but I didn't.

Anyway, who is Emma de Guzman? She's a simple woman and who hardly know much about the faith. With the demands of her family needs, she went to Singapore and Canada for work. It's in Canada that she became a visionary, but has already an inkling while in Singapore. Our Lady appeared and taught her how to pray the three mysteries, also taught her the catechism. She also saw St. John, she said he's very young and handsome (TRUE! my idol, my saint!). Then, in Canada, together with Sol Gaviola, they founded La Pieta International Prayer Group. I hope one day, I'll see her for my healing in both body and soul.

Mt. of Salvation is what our Lady asked Emma to look for in the Philippines, a place for pilgrimage to pray for peace. Our Lady appeared here to affirm that this is the right place. After that, the water sprang up which I took advantage to drink on. Not just drinking, but I almost take a bath. Well, the water tastes so well that my companions also did.

See in the pictures, there's the stone saying that our Lady appeared together with Pope John Paul II and Blessed Faustina last April 9, 2005. It means saints are alive and at their prime life. How, I wish to see Pope John Paul II also. Hopefully, I see them in heaven. So, help me God. Amen.

I will stop here first, I still have to watch the June Keithly Report about Emma. More, next time. Thanks

Going to confession isn't that hard

We see that the queue for the Holy Communion is very long during the mass while its barely a line of penitents going to confession. Why is it so? Some would say, I'd rather go straight to God? Why confess and ask forgiveness through a man? For some, they may say, I have no sin. Why should I confess? Well, hopefully they are truthful to themselves. But, there are people, in all humility and simplicity would say they don't know what to say to the priest inside the confessional box. That's pretty cool, so, here's a quick and easy guide for confession:

1.Faith in God

First thing, one must believe in God. If, you don't have, then it's time to ask God for it. Unlucky you, if you don't. Faith is the lifeblood of all faithful Catholics, especially for those people who are living a holy and happy life and have ultimately made it to sainthood. One must desire to seek, know and love God above all. How to do that? Simple, at your fingertips, use the internet or by on foot, go to the church near you. There are a lot of Catholic websites where you can read on. But, most of all is to pray and establish a personal relationship with God.

2.Deep examination of conscience

Recall your sins. In silence, ask yourself calmly what internal and external actions that you deliberately committed against God and your neighbor. It may be mortal or venial sins depending on the nature of the matter, circumstances and your consent. One can use the 10 Commandments as a guide for examination. In fact, some priest use it in giving guided confession for those who have not gone for years. As such, the priest asks and the penitent answers. Other than God's commandments, there are also sins against virtues and teachings of the Catholic Church. After a thorough examination, one must manifest contrition, resolution to make amends and go to the priest for confession.

3.Act of Confession

Go to the church near you or any parish that you know that hears confession in a certain time. Now, here's the step inside the confessional box:

a. Tell the priest that you are going for confession. Then, make the sign of the Cross. A priest will say something, then, you can start with “Bless me Father for I have sinned. My last confession was (______). I accuse myself for (mention here your sins contritely)”. For example, “ I accuse myself for my lack of love of God for having a disordered desire for material things... etc. Then, to end it, you may also ask forgiveness for your past sins against a particular virtue or any past sins forgotten but has not confessed.

b. The priest will then give an opportune advice, here he may open a conversation with you, which you can make clarifications and ask for enlightenment on issues you want. The priest will then give the penance and absolution for the sins confessed. After that, you may recite fervently the penance given to you inside the chapel.

c. Then, smile. God has forgiven you and start life anew. Invite friends to go to confession too. If they don't know how, teach them.

It is very much encourage to conscientiously do the examination of conscience daily. Preparation for confession must be concrete, complete, concise and contrite. One may go at least once a year as the minimum requirement of the Church. But, there is no limit, one can go as often as necessary. Confession, more than anything else, is but cleansing and purification of one's soul and reliving life anew towards the fullness of life in God.

If ever you fall, my son, go quickly to Confession and seek spiritual guidance. Show your wound so that it gets properly healed and all possibility of infection is removed, even if doing this hurts you as much as having an operation. (St. Escriva, The Forge, 192)

So, where's Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie In Boracay!?!

pssstzingggg!....bang, pink,plonk, toink, tzing, urgh, uhh,uhh, uhh! spitting blood, gasping one's breath. Hold another gun then fired for the last time. Still, amidst crossfires, there 's one man standing. Unruffled, dapper as always, beamingly handsome in his Omega Seamaster watch! tsadanggg!!! presenting the man behind 007 -Mr. James Bond! Waahhh!?! was sickened with his movies watching them for almost six hours from Tagbak to Caticlan by King Long of Ceres. Perhaps, king of long trips! We left Iloilo City last Sunday at 11am and arrived Boracay at 6pm. Missed the setting of the sun by spending all the time looking for the resort where we will be billeted. Toink! Then, had dinner buffet at Kaiseke, and my friend had her tattoo, drank coffee at Starbucks and fruit shake at Jonah's. After that, a quick watch of the fire dance at MO2, then back to the cottage. Of course, ended the day with a Mary Kay facial spa session for a beautiful night rest. Following day, had mass at Sto. Rosary Church. Visited my friend who owns Boracay Plaza. Then, took some photo shoots going back to Station 2 for an hour dip to the sea carpeted with green algaes. Yaikks! not so much fun. Boracay water was just like a swimming pool, fishes were also white. Not much to see under unless you will really go to their diving sites. But, there were more gimmicks like parasailing, banana boat ride, jetski,etc. After swimming, we went back to Boracay Plaza to see my friend again. Had a quick talk, proceeded to Pearl of the Pacific to look for Sanson and Dunne, then we hopped from one resort to another. Had fun talking to people on the street while waiting for my friend. Took shots of the streets and its details. After that, we went to "walang kamatayang" Andoks- for lunch, quenching our thirts with a liter of C2. At 3pm, we went back home to the city. Then, another....tzinggggg, ping,ponk, plink. This time the protagonist was "wa poise"...exhausted, haggard, has the looks of the "pasan ko ang daigdig". Typical of Will Smith, but of course, also still standing amidst smokes, bombing and crossfires. These movie flicks kill me..hahayyy
Well, anyway, they said the Hollywood Couple were in Shangrila. Hope, it was true. I do not know.

Less than $10 Getaway in Guimaras Island

One of the best islands in the Philippines is Guimaras Island. This is a real penny pincher day trip getaway that we backpackers love most. Your money here is doubly or triply guaranteed with all the sightseeing, places to visits, boating and swimming adventures. Alubihod, in particular, is what we liked most. It's our getaway to other small islets and other resorts. If you want private swimming, you can hire a boat and go to Ave Maria for hours of intense swimming and snorkeling. There, we learned to cross swim from one island to another island. Sometimes, it's real deep when it's high tide. But, of course it's more challenging. In this part of the island, you'll see rich fish corals and many colorfuls fishes. The area was not affected with oil spill in 2007, but somehow affected by villagers fishing. Nevertheless, it is still one of the best swimming ground we have in Guimaras, other than Guisi, Isla Miguel and Taklong Island.
In Alubihod, you can hire a boat good for six persons at $11 for 2 hours. This will bring you to the turtle sanctuary, then to Ave Maria and other adjacent islet cave and resorts such as Baras and Isla Naburot. Entrance fee is at $0.33. Jeepney fare from Jordan is $1.78 vice versa. While boat fare from Iloilo City to and fro is $0.67. The total fare is only $2.45. You just bring your own food to stretch every penny you have, but if none, Alubihod restaurant can serve you the food that you like. Along the way, you can also visit the Trappistine Abbey for a short stop. There you can also buy some Guimaras delicacies and fresh mangoes for take home items.
Scenic Guimaras Island is really worthwhile to explore and enjoy most by both local and international tourists.