Bohol

The weather was perfect...not too sunny, and not too cloudy. It was raining cats and dogs in Manila, but it didn't rain a bit in Bohol. Finally, took a break. Had a kit-kat. And despite it being the rainy season, the weather cooperated nicely. Ahh...the life. :)

Some points of interest:

• Baclayon Church -- The Philippine's oldest Church. Built in 1596 under the Spanish regime, the Baclayon Church still retains its original stone structure. There's a museum beside the church which showcases old statues of saints, and other church paraphernalia. An old old piano with a big big music sheet reminded me of old ghosts. The museum is made of wood, entrance is 25 pesos per head. Beside the Church and the museum is the school where Cesar Montano studied (according to our guide). Nagkamali pa nga ako ng rinig eh...nung nabanggit kasi ng guide si Cesar, sabi nya, "bakla yun". Natawa ako. Napagalitan tuloy ako...sinabi pala nya, "Baclayon", hindi "bakla yun."
• Chocolate Hills -- What more can I say? The Chocolate Hills of Bohol is one of the tourist spots that elementary school kids memorize whenever they're asked what's unique about the Philippines. A viewing deck is constructed on top of the highest hill. 200 steps lead up to the top of the hill. A small grotto lies halfway up the hill. Entrance is free.
• Loboc River Cruise -- Loboc River was immortalized in Cesar Montano's Panaghoy sa Suba. One can have a buffet lunch meal cruise for around 250 bucks. Some barges even have a karaoke machine on board. Ours had manong serenading us with good old acoustic favorites.
• Tarsiers -- Yes, the world's smallest monkey. They're cute, they're small, and they're being protected by the DENR. It's now illegal to actually hold one, the tarsiers have a tendency to die after being handled
• Panglao Island -- The beach is heaven. Fine white sand, clear tranquil waters. 'Nuff said.
• Blood Compact Site -- The original blood compact site was private property, so they erected the monument a few steps away from the actual site. This site commemorates Legazpi and Rajah Sikatuna's blood compact way back in 1565. Entrance to site is free (just donate something).

There are lots more to do (whale watching, diving, hiking, biking)...next year ulit. Sana libre naman ako. Hehe.

**Mura daw sa Nuts Huts, sabi ng guide namin na si Tata. May sign sila along Loboc River. Meron din mga foreign backpackers, at madalas daw marami nagste-stay duon. May bundok din daw na malapit, di na nga lang namin nakita.

More pictures here.