Before Sunrise @ Kiltepan

The much talked about Viewpoint has been getting a handful of attention. Thanks to Angelica's emotional scene, screaming at the top of her lungs hoping in doing so, it will take the pain away ( That Thing Called Tadhana ). But let's not get overly dramatic. Kiltepan Viewpoint is actually a perfect spot to watch the sun rise on the east. It's a place to gather your thoughts, commune with nature, find serenity and just be content at the stillness of surrounding. Now, there's a disclaimer to this - Should you attempt to go there at 5:00 am during peak season, then tough luck. Chances are, you'll only being seeing heads, tripods and iphones up in the air, blocking the majestic sight of sunrise.


It was our last stop in Sagada before we head off to Baguio. Our Van pulled in at around 05:00 am and much to our surprise, the place was already jammed with tourists with their hi tech gadgets in tow,  trying to secure this spot to capture the perfect photograph of the Sunrise. I felt discouraged as I tried to squeeze myself in the crowd. It was hopeless to even raise my camera up to get a good glance of what about to transpire. We saw people going in a different direction and so we decided to follow them as they climbed to what seemed like a hill. There were already a group of people in the forefront but fortunately, we found a spot enough to see the sun as it breaks the dawn. We stood there, waiting patiently as more and more people gathered at the point. After a few more minutes, the fog cleared up and soon it was bright, golden and warm. Sunrise will always be one of the most beautiful showcase of God's magnificent creation. It was beautiful and no filter can ever do justice to the magical experience you'll have as you watch the sun comes out and breaks the darkness.



After 15 minutes or so, we decided to wander around and saw these giant pine trees - light bulb comes on. Backdrop! It felt like Autumn in NYC with all the browns, rust and vermillion colors around us. The sun streaks were peeping its way in through the branches of the trees, touching the amples of our cheeks. It was certainly a good, reassuring morning. We event witnessed a proposal which I found to be slightly cliche considering Kiltepan Viewpoint was considered the Brokenhearted's Solace. I lost count at the number of photos we took with us leaning on the trunk of the tree. A cameraman passed by and asked if he can take the photo of our friend. He asked him to move away from the trees a bit and angle himself partly facing the sun and the camera. The photo came out excellent and one thing we learned that day was, subjects should move away from the background as they will appear as false attachments resulting to a confusing photograph. Thank you Mr Cameraman! Photography 101.





As we make our descent to Baguio which was a sign that it's indeed the end of our Sagada stint, I felt a sense of unexplained happiness and peace. Yes, it was a series of sleep-deprived and exhausting itinerary but the adventures, memories and bond we created during this strip will be the stories we would tell to our children and grandchildren. It was one of those precious things you will save to your core memory and one that you'll unlock whenever the itch of wanderlust kicks in. Sagada was one of the first few places I had a chance of visiting when it was still unknown to many and it has been kind enough to still offer the same sense of serenity and beauty as it did back then.

Xo,

Jhesy 

Sagada's Bomod-Ok Falls

Hidden behind rice paddies and mountain villages is a well-kept tourist destination of Sagada. Bomod-ok or Big Falls soars some 200 feet high in the air and the path leading to this nature's creation is both an exciting and knee jerking experience that will leave you astounded and amazed.

The jump off point starts at the Information center where all the groups gathered for briefing and to meet the tour guides. Here you'll get to choose your trekking stick which certainly is my priced possession throughout the hike as it saved me from countless slips and pitfalls.

The hike starts with narrow but well-maintained cemented pathway and stone stairs which serves as the hiking trail.Extra caution is advised as the steps tend to be slippery and steep that a misstep could lead to several meters fall.

After a series of narrowed pathways, the scenery changed to vast and verdant rice paddies overlooking the village of Fidelisan. Walking in Cordillera's rice paddies was more than just an experience, it was a dream come true. I remember flipping through pages or flow charts with pictures of this man-made terraces and have always thought of how it would feel like to actually walk on them. And this trip to Sagada paved way to turn those into reality.

The view starts to get scenic as we inch closer to the falls. Though the trail is descending, expect some knee-jerking and more than an hour long walk to reach the spot. Sunblock, shawl, hats, trail mix and water would be your best buds throughout the entire hike.

Countless stops for photos and a couple more breaks to catch our breathe, we finally reached Bomod-Ok Falls. It's everything I remember sans the crowd. The big rock facing the falls which I effortlessly climbed 10 years ago firmly hold its ground. I did attempt to climb up but failed miserably. Why can't I be as brawny and fit as I was back then. Sigh. SOA.

The water is inviting, freezing but everyone's almost thrilled to jump in. It's tempting and the cold splashes were enough to rejuvenate our tired, sore muscles. There are no changing quarters or restrooms in the area but you can always improvised by using shawl or sarong. If you're not adept at swimming, you can always lounge at the side of the falls where the water is shallow. If you are brave enough to climb an almost vertical rock and you're confident that you won't slip or fall, then go ahead and dare yourself to an epic adventure. Again caution is important as your neck is sure to break should you happen to slip.

This spot has also served as a source of livelihood for the locals. Here you can buy swimwear, drinks, banana-q, chips and more. It would be good to grab a bite before you head back as you need to fuel up as the ascent is certainly not an easy feat.

We took the same trail back and it was far more challenging. It takes patience and a lot of pit stops but our appreciation for this beautiful landscape is endless. As we traverse the upward path, we saw how Sagada and its local ingenuity are able to preserve its culture by working hand in hand with nature. We saw hard working elders plucking and sowing earth oblivious of the heat and pain of bending ( insert : Magtanim ay di biro... ).  It's a humbling experience that made us realize the value of work and effort they put in for us to have grains on our plate each meal. And it was also heartbreaking to realize that their role in our society is often given the least priority.

Walking back to the jump off point offered some thoughts for me to ponder on. They say that it is the journey that matters and not the destination. But Bomod-Ok is a case of both. The trek to this hidden spot is must do activity as the view is nothing short of spectacular. Worth every muscle pains and gasps. It is best enjoyed with people you value most and even with strangers you'll get to spend a few hours with. In any type of journey, hike or adventure, it is imperative that you approach it with an open mind and sheer optimism because every experience you set yourself to embark on will always be a rewarding one. And in the case of Bomod-Ok Falls, every strenuous step is worth it and you'll be surprised at the many things you'll discover along the way.

Xo,

Jhesy 

Surviving Sagada : Cave Connection & Sumaguing Cave

I was told not to leave Sagada without checking off Cave Connection on my list of must-do in the province. It's not part of our the tour itinerary but TBH I had no idea what to expect but from the name itself, it does sound like a series of caves. I'd been to Sumaguing Cave and I seriously enjoyed it more than Palawan Underground river which of course is also exceptionally beautiful hence securing its spot on the Wonders of the world. But Sagada is immensely unique and the experience I've had 10 years ago is exponentially different from what I've seen/encountered during this trip. 

Truth be told, Cave connection requires endurance and physicality. It can post real life danger hence caution is advised. Now don't get discouraged and dismiss this activity from your itinerary. Had I known this 10 years ago, I would have tried it and emerged as a bad ass right after ( I was probably more fit and have had high tolerance for exhaustion). 

As our group all agreed to do Cave Connection - Sumaguing Cave ( not realizing what we're getting ourselves into ) and even signed up for the Certification ( yes we want our bragging rights); we were told that it may take 4-5 hours to traverse inside the cave and exit at Sumaguing. It was about 2:00 pm when we started our descent. I have been inside big caves before but this is the longest I've been and the most difficult one I must say. We entered Lumiang Cave with 3 of our travel guides and their lamps in tow. The cold breeze started to creep in. It was sort of easy at first then it became more and more difficult as we get deeper inside the cave. You literally have to squeeze and slide yourself in small openings which I thought was amazing. How on earth did we manage to fit in?  The guides know the caves too well and they will be the one lift you at times and pull you up. You will be stepping on their legs, shoulders and back every once in a while and trust me they know when it is time to take a photo. Your Life is in their hands. I lost count at the number of times I slipped and bumped my knees, elbow and thighs. Landed on my bum more than 6 times and I resorted to taking my slippers off out of fear that the next time I slip, I may never make it out of the cave alive. If you're claustrophobic, it is imperative to check whether you are up to this challenge. The are a lot of small openings and most often than not, you'll find yourself squeezed in between rocks.The water inside the cave can be very cold ( between 5-7C) but you can opt to take a dip if you can stand the cold temperature.

All of the scrapes, bruises and exhaustion paid off when we gazed at the rock formation. The cave is filled with stalagmites and stalactites beautifully shaped by nature itself. 

Here are some of my travel tips for a safe cave exploration

1. Get a tour guide

While being adventurous does sound crazy fun, it is of utmost importance that you get a guide. Get yourself registered at the tourism office. No matter how good you are at spelunking, I wouldn't suggest traversing the cave by yourself. The guides are well trained and they will also share tidbits of stories while injecting humor to their anecdotes.

2. Wear appropriate Outfit 

The rocks can be slippery hence wearing flip flops or rubber sandals are encouraged. You will be asked to remove them and you'll definitely get wet at some point. Make sure that you are wearing either workout leggings or shorts. Wear anything comfortable and not necessarily fashionable. Err, you can color coordinate if you can't resist.

3.Ziplock Your Gadgets

I didn't bring my phone and my camera inside the cave. But of course you want to capture those IG worthy shots of the rock formation so I'd suggest you place them in zip locks or life proof. My friends had their Go Pro so I just relied on them for the photo op. Hang them on your neck or place them in your back pack. You need your hands free during the hike.

4. Patience Is a Virtue

At some point you'll ask. "are we there yet?" It's pitch black inside the cave and everyone is advised to take precautionary steps. No pushing or horse playing. You'll have to wait for people to finish climbing the rope, you'll have to wait for others to finish making their way inside a small opening. There will be a lot of waiting so yes, you really need to work on that patience.

5. Have Fun and respect nature

It's an incredible experience to successfully complete Cave Connection and the opportunity to marvel at God's creation. No matter how tiring and difficult it may seem; remember to have fun. You made the decision to go there and what better way to admire nature's treasure than to enjoy every opportunity we get to commune with it. Leave nothing but memories and cherish the time you spent. At the end of it, you have a story to tell and a certificate to boot :)

Cave Connection + Sumaguing Cave + Certificate = 450PHP

Don't forget to give tip because the tour guides deserve them. The effort they put in to ensure our safety, is priceless compared to the small amount you can bless them with.

Love,

Jhesy