Corregidor...

Sort of team building activity for our department, we visited the historic Corregidor Island. The plan received teases from other groups for what they so called an educational field trip as most departments chose the relaxing hot venue of beaches and resorts to take advantage of summer.

Exactly boarding time when we arrived at the CCP Terminal for an hour of ferry boat via Sun Cruises as included in a day-tour package that we availed. The boat was nice contrary to what I expected. What ruined our trip were big waves that humped the beast which caused us to swallow our stomach and gave that dizzy condition. In as much as we want to watch the interesting tv documentary about the island, we all just manage ourselves and keep sleep to avoid the unconfortable condition.

As soon as we arrived at the dock, we boarded tram buses which would take us around the island. And right there and then, we started to discover historic spots hide in the island. First destinations are the ruins of the Middleside Barracks, the Corregidor Hospital and the Topside Barracks which said to be the longest military barracks in the world at the time it was built. Along the way are popular Battery Way, Battery Hearn and Battery Grubbs.

My favorite attraction was the Pacific War Memorial which built in great passion of arts and sentiments. I also enjoy the Spanish Lighthouse where I find lots of interesting artifacts. Next stop was the Malinta Tunnel which been an optional part of the tour offered a 30-minute light and sound show. The script was truly informative and interesting life-size sculptures were good aides to appreciate best the presentation. It’s a good thing that I made earlier reservation here since it was highly recommended to those who are interested to learn more about World War II. At the end of the show, the Philippine National Anthem was played which been the most solemn part of the show.

Tired and hungry we proceeded to the Corregidor Hotel for our buffet lunch. After a heart-warming meal, we managed to enjoy last hours as we proceeded to the Filipino Heroes Memorial where statues of Manuel L. Quezon and Sergio Osmena stand together with monuments of Filipino guerillas, a Filipina, and a several bas relief tableaus of important revolts from the Battle of Mactan to EDSA 1986. The latter might have nothing to do with the island, but it surely means a lot to the president who built this momentous.

Next stop was the Japanese War Memorial which serves as resting place to the lives lost on the Japanese troupes. Most interesting artifact in the area was the giant statue of Guan Yin (Kannon to the Japanese). Our last destination was the beach where we had little time to relax and enjoy the breeze. Before boarding the ferry, the bus took its last stop to the Lorca Dock where the statue of Gen. MacArthur, the most famous man is the island was standing still, waving his hand who seemed inviting us to visit again just like when he uttered his famous line “ I shall return.”

I definitely love the place. With the remains of time, Corregidor is the best destination for someone who wants turn back time during wars. The irony is that one will no longer hear any roar from bombing explosives or heart-tearing agony of dying warriors instead what will prevail is the calmness of mind and spirit. It's nice to know that this place which once became victim and devastated by war is now heaven of peace and tranquility. It’s truly the best place for learning and leisure.

Puerto Galera...

I admire the greatness of our local heroes for the independence that we are all enjoying today. On top of that, I personally want to thank them for giving us the reason to celebrate every April 9 the valor and greatness of these brave men. As a result we all have a single day to spare and enjoy.

For someone who's too exhausted and overworked, there's nothing much more enjoying than to spend days out-of-town, escape the crowded city life, forget along those tedious job, spent bonded time with the nature and rejuvenate myself for more challenging works ahead. The plan was made to happen by a small group of colleagues who set the trip to Puerto Galera last minute of Friday. Its been an overnight and exciting stay.

The first and the last time I been in the island was back to college when i toured a japanese friend. Things changed a lot. I can’t no longer see any nipa cottages which I expected to stay. What we have there were hard structures of hotels and cottages. It was not bad anyway. I just find it more relaxing to stay in local and traditional cottages. The island was able to maintain its cleanliness despite commercialism. They can offer more activities now than before. It was a good destination indeed. Just three hours bus travel from manila and an hour of sailing in a crowded non-aircon ferryboat.

Other than the island hoping, food tripping and photo taking, I really enjoyed the fun and the never ending laughters my other half and I shared with the colleagues whom I had for the first time. We are now looking forward for the next desination, hopefully with the same group again.