Beyond Finding Myself

The days following my Banaue trip felt like a dream. I felt as if it was difficult to exist after such a beautiful trip, so I pushed myself to go to my usual venues for inspo. 

My first stop was Cinema Centenario to watch Ang Nawawala. It was a film that spoke to me, because a) my close friend from high school passed away a decade ago, b) I am currently adulting yet still living my dream of having a handmade, local-love, art-loving lifestyle, and c) the soundtrack featured the best of OPM rock from my growing-up years. 

Also, it was my first time to have a cinema all to myself. The experience was surreal (it was unplanned and it just so happened I was the only viewer for that showing). 

I personally adore how the microcinema displays film props within the premises. These suitcases were prominently featured in the film.  

The next day, I visited the Vargas Museum at UP Diliman for a walk-through of their Beyond Myself: Filipino Migrants’ Investments in Philippine Futures exhibition. 

There was a postcard table which lets visitors write to OFW participants in Hong Kong and London.  

This installation is entitled Padala. It features typical items which OFW’s send back to their relatives in the Philippines.  

This frame featured a bookshelf which an OFW has proudly saved up for. Books make her happy, and I imagine that it makes her job bearable. The Danielle Steel novel is mine and I just had to place it on the frame. 

Our walk-through was a poignant reminder that Filipino migrant workers are not robots. They have their own lives abroad. They are capable of fighting for their rights, creating art, thriving in social circles, and bringing joy into their lives.  

There was a clever part of the exhibit which resembles a videoke. It was playing the Ama Namin or the Our Father, as OFW’s make time for Sunday Mass. Some churches abroad have Filipino priests and masses, and this is a strong reminder of home. 

Here, the paintings done by some OFW artists were featured.  

This wall cleverly shows a typical apartment row where OFW’s are employed. It is a stark reminder of their existence and ingenuity to thrive in such an environment. 

We had a short talk from a visiting professor from Singapore.  

After the insightful tour and talk, I wrote a postcard for an OFW.  

I then moved on to the Living Architecture exhibition at the ground floor of the museum. 

After my museum tour, I went to a nearby mall for some bread, coffee, and a showing of The Post.  

Those days back in the city taught me that there are meaningful experiences nearby, and I can make them part of my narrative. I enjoy going to museums and watching movies because they show me a different perspective of the world. I just need to let life take me further and by trusting the process, I am learning more about myself. 

Fitness Goals at Banaue

I am now back at Manila, but my heart is still in Banaue. Looking back on my trip gives me joy as I recall all the happy memories during that trip. My group may have only spent three days there, but it felt like we stayed there longer because we did plenty of things together. I am grateful to have met new friends among the locals and within my tour group. I feel blessed that Knitting Expedition has organized a special tour to the rice terraces. It was truly worth it!

Working out is already part of my lifestyle. While I did not prepare for this trip in particular, I did find myself enjoying my daily brisk walks at a nearby park. I also continued doing Zumba and cardio exercises at home. Keeping fit has enabled me to survive the trip with ease.  

As I share with you these photos taken during my last day at this magical place, I hope that you too will be inspired to travel to a destination you have always wanted to visit. I hope that you will also integrate exercise into your daily life. And while there is no way to determine which destination will truly bring you joy, I hope that you will find that special venue which could reignite your dreams and inspire you to envision a better life for yourself. 

When I was still planning for this trip, the few people who knew about it worriedly asked me if I was doing this to find myself. It is a popular travel theme after all. While I do not question people who travel for this reason, I have made it clear from the start that I did not go to Banaue to find myself. I was a research assistant to Mitzie Icasiano more than a decade ago, and it was because of her studies in Ifugao culture that I found fascination, innate joy, and yes, I found myself. I already did that many years ago. This trip is merely a realization of a longtime desire to see Ifugao culture up close, and what better way to do that than through a tour which supports the local knitting community and tourism industry.  

These photos of me with the majestic Banaue Rice Terraces were taken as a tribute to the rich Ifugao culture, and the joy I found in studying it. By keeping fit and enjoying the whole tour, I was able to realize my dream to travel to Banaue. And by becoming my own “fitspiration”, I kept myself going. 

I hope that you too will find your Banaue. May your heart be filled with happiness beyond this month of love, and may the coming years be kind to all of us. May God bless us all. 

Banaue Day 3 Part 2: Banaue Town and Fire Station

We spent our last day at Banaue exploring the town center for lunch and shopping. Our group went to Las Vegas Restaurant, a local favorite of backpackers. 

While waiting for my order, I decided to explore the nearby shops and buy some necklaces to add to my collection.  

I bought these necklaces and earrings featuring Ifugao artistry. The knife necklace is a souvenir for my best friend.  

The earrings reminded me of Polly Pocket toys! 

I started my meal with coffee.  

And then I devoured the Las Vegas Rice, which is similar to chicken adobo. It was delicious! 

After finishing my lunch, I headed out again to buy ice cream from a nearby store. I chanced upon betel nut packs which the locals chew. I did not try it but I found the merchandising fascinating.  

I bought local chocolate and cookies and cream (not pictured) ice cream. I also bought this and another magnet to add to my collection.  

We then proceeded to my favorite part, shopping! 

I always like seeing corner bakeries and this was no exception.  

I also had photos taken with my roommates Rocelle and Vivi.  

While Vivi was shopping for textiles, Rocelle fulfilled my childhood dream of having photos taken on a fire truck! 

After buying a textile bag and a few more trinkets, I suggested that we all have coffee at a bakery which our guide Ate Jean recommended.  

It was located near this viewpoint facing the Banaue town proper.  

We then settled down and of course, I selected their bestsellers, donut and banana bread.  

It was the best banana bread I have ever had! 

After freshening up, we then hiked to the information center where the buses to Manila load passengers. I was seated comfortably and before I knew it, the zigzag roads have lulled me to sleep.  

We then stopped over at Nueva Vizcaya, where I had a light dinner of kikiam, siomai, and hotdog.  

I reached Manila safely at almost 3AM. It was a fantastic trip which I will remember for the rest of my life! 

Banaue Day 3 Part 1: The Most Beautiful Sunrise I Have Ever Seen

I woke up before six in the morning on our last day at Uhaj, Banaue.

I was able to witness the most beautiful sunrise I have ever seen at the comfort of our inn’s restaurant. 

It was magical. I had the whole restaurant to myself.  

Well, Rain did keep me company in the middle of it. 

I ordered the Filipino breakfast again and kept my eyes glued to the sunrise. 

Rain was still there!

The fog suddenly dissipated and the rice terraces eventually said hello!

It transformed me. Oh, and I had delicious coffee to sip while watching the sun shine over the mountains. 

I then walked around the village inn grounds to stretch and reflect on the breathtaking view I witnessed. 

This was the view from our hut. 

I then went on to get ready for the rest of the day, knowing that I was in the midst of indescribable natural beauty. 

Banaue Day 2 Part 2: Rice Planting and Cultural Night

After exploring the hot springs, we then proceeded to a plot of land owned by one of the nanay (mom) knitters. We were there to try planting rice, and in order to get there, we had to hike down a mountain. 

We were not forced to plant rice, and some people in our group did not feel like doing so because it would entail having to step on mud. I respect their choice, but I was there for the full experience. 

Planting rice is one of my bucket list items, so it was natural for me to be the first to volunteer.  

The mud was soft and mushy, but it was manageable to walk on.  

Photo by Rocelle 

A few of my groupmates eventually joined me.  

It was so much fun! However, I also realized that it was hard work. I finally had respect for farmers who plant rice for a living. It is definitely not easy.  

Photo by Knitting Expedition 

We wrapped up our farming experience with a hike upwards. After a jeepney ride to our inn, we were all starving. I had delicious vegetable curry and beer by the best view. 

To be exact, it was beer and coffee. I had this combo all throughout our trip that my friends dubbed it “The Sam”.

I also continued knitting while waiting for the cultural dancers to arrive. 

We then had our cultural night, featuring talented Ifugao dancers and percussionists. Some of them were our knitting nanay’s kids! They let the children dance and perform for visitors in order to preserve their culture and to educate us about their tribal heritage. 

We danced the night away with them and I really enjoyed myself.  

Photo by Knitting Expedition

We chose to have our group shot with the kids. 

Photo by Knitting Expedition

I ended the night by trying on their traditional skirt and a photo op with these talented ladies.  

It was an unforgettable day with new friends and magical experiences. I will never forget this day.  

Banaue Day 1

I just got back from my trip to Uhaj, Banaue for the Knitting Adventure organized by social enterprise Knitting Expedition. The woman behind the brand of hand-knitted toys, Candy Reyes, was our tour guide. Her passion for the Ifugao culture and of course, knitting, was palpable. It also helped that the people with me in this trip were also staunch advocates of handmade, buying local, and culture. 

Our trip began with a bus ride from Cubao and a stopover at Nueva Vizcaya.  

I was so happy to finally make it to Banaue!

The bus played “Top of the World” by the Carpenters during this moment. 

I was inspired by Mitzie Icasiano (Fulbright scholar and expert on Ifugao handicrafts) to go to Banaue when I became her research assistant in 2007. We handled Kalinga and Ifugao artifacts at the UP Asian Center, and that sparked a love for all things Ifugao in me. I ended up wearing Natalya Lagdameo bangles from the region, and I always found myself dreaming of visiting the rice terraces myself. So after buying a dog plushie from Knitting Expedition and some online conversations with Candy, I decided that this is the perfect opportunity to visit Uhaj.

Finally, I made it! This was at our accommodations, the Uhaj Native Village Inn. Their menu is largely Western, and the facilities are modern and clean. 

This was the view from the inn’s restaurant.  

Our room was something like this!

My first breakfast in Uhaj. Yes, both coffees were mine.

I then got to topload on a jeepney. This is a local custom as public vehicles are scarce and people simply have to find a way to fit in- or on top of- a jeep. 

This was a childhood dream come true!

This was at their viewing point.  

Breathtaking!

Now back at our Inn. I found some books which guests could peruse. 

And once again, the view, and my Php20 bill which features the rice terraces. 

Our cottage was cozy, and I was sharing it with two other ladies from our group, Rocelle and Vivi. 

I also got to meet the inn’s adorable Great Dane, Rain. 

We then had our knitting class in the afternoon at the inn’s viewing deck. 

Basic knitting has never been this inspiring. 

Candy’s wingwoman in the region, Jean, was one of our teachers. She is a knitting legend and rice farmer. Also, she is a mom and tour guide!

Rain held my hand as I was struggling with learning how to knit. 

I eventually made a simple cup cozy. 

By the time our class was done, it was time for dinner. I savored this chicken curry with brown rice. It was delicious! 

To cap off the night, I had a cold one with this priceless view. 

It was a great first day at Banaue, and I went to bed inside an Ifugao house. 

I really couldn’t ask for anything more.

PAWS Year of the Dog Date

After my short but sweet bonding time with Ella at Barkin Blends, I proceeded to PAWS for my second date with one of their adoptable fur kids. I already had a date with adoptable dog Ruff yesterday, and I enjoyed it so much! I simply had to have a second one with another shelter buddy. 

I was matched with Perseus, who has never been selected for a date yet. I walked him first around the compound since he was full of energy.  

He calmed down after I turned the walk into a jog. We went to the pop-up cafe for our date. 

He ate his snack, while I had a pastry and sipped my coffee.  

Before I knew it, this heartbreaker was kissing me! 

It was a magical date.  

I cannot explain how much love I felt from this guy. I am currently single, so this date has helped me too. I got to experience genuine love even if it was only for an hour at a shelter. I really hope that he will get adopted soon.  

If you are looking for a pet, please adopt from PAWS! Their dogs and cats need homes and they deserve a soft bed, hugs, belly rubs, and love. 

Here’s to a beautiful Year of the Dog ahead! 

Photo from PAWS  

Barkin‘ Blends Year of the Dog Date

I visited Barkin’ Blends Dog Cafe today to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year. I am particularly happy that this time, it is the Year of the Dog. I am a frustrated dog lover, so the next best thing when my family is allergic is to visit a dog cafe. 

I started my celebration with lunch: Ella Pesto Pasta and dark chocolate milk tea. 

Their food and drinks are delicious and comforting.  

Of course, the cafe was decorated with hearts, lucky doggo charms, and post-its from customers. 

After finishing my lunch, I proceeded to the dog zone to bond with my favorite pooch Ella! 

I missed her so much. She did not seem scared of my green lippie. 

We bonded and she gave me her usual sloppy kisses.  

I knew that she was sleepy so I let her take a nap.  

I had a lovely visit as always, and I look forward to more chill afternoons at the cafe. See you soon, Ella and friends!

Pawlentines Date

I spent Valentine’s afternoon at the PAWS shelter along Katipunan Avenue. I went there after my family lunch and Ash Wednesday mass. 

I was excited to join their PAWS Furst Date event, which is their Valentine’s Pop-up Dog and Cat Cafe. For only Php300, I get to spend time with a shelter animal, a cup of coffee, cookies, treats for my chosen doggo or kitty, and lots of cute photos.

I was super thrilled by the time I reached the cafe area. 

I selected senior dog Ruff because of his smile. He was so delighted to spend time with me! 

He was huggable, kissable, and adoptable! Unfortunately, I can’t adopt him. But if you are thinking of taking a dog home this year, please consider adopting him. He’s the sweetest. 

We entered the cafe area and I chose the Paris corner.  

He devoured his dog muffins from Whole Pet Kitchen in between photos. 

I fell in love with this cutie and I really wish he will find his furever home soon! 

We walked around the compound and I made it a light jog. This buddy was able to keep up with me. I was impressed! 

The pop-up cafe will run until February 17, from 1-5 PM. Please drop by if you can! It’s the best Valentine charity event I have ever been to. Who knows, you might also fall in love with one of their adorable and sociable shelter animals!

Galentine’s Day

I had dinner with my girl friend Chesca on Valentine’s Eve. We checked out 150 Maginhawa and we both had a lovely dinner. She had a Chinese rice bowl, while I had another meal in mind.

I had this beef burrito rice bowl from Molcajete, and it was delicious!

Then, I had this Davao Tablea chocolate cake from Wadough’s, the cafe from the MMFF 2017 tearjerker All of You starring Jennylyn Mercado.

Oh God, it was to die for. 

Meanwhile, Chesca had this chocolate ice cream cloud from Up in the Clouds. 

I also had my photo taken by the pretty wall. 

We then proceeded to Grape Escape for some red wine and catching-up.  

It was a fun and laidback Galentine’s Day with one of my favorite gals! Til next time! 

Gnocchi Hearts Day!

 Buon San Valentino!

Yesterday, I turned thirty-one and a half years old. I celebrated Valentine’s in advance as well since February 14 is Ash Wednesday.  

I had lunch with my family at Bellini’s Cubao X. Imagine my surprise and glee when I saw that their menu contains gnocchi !

I simply had to have their spinach gnocchi. I mean, it’s Valentine’s!

We started with this pizza. It was delicious.  

Finally, I had my gnocchi and beer. You have no idea how long I’ve been looking for delicious gnocchi in Manila. 

It was yummy!

For dessert, I had a slice of their delectable orange cake. It was the perfect ending to a lovely meal.  

Also had their house dessert wine.  

And since this was the setting of one of my favorite movies, One More Chance, I had to have some photos by the famous table. 

Basha (Bea Alonzo’s character) has been my style icon for years! 

John Lloyd and Bea forever.  

I had a heavenly lunch at a memorable place! Thank you Bellini’s for bringing my gnocchi dreams to life! 

Sam Lucas, 31 1/2, single and happy! 

From Lourdes to Pares

Last Sunday, I attended the procession in honor of the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes. It was through her intercession that I was healed from Fibromyalgia and my eyesight became 20/20 when I was a teenager (trivia: my eyesight is STILL 20/20! My glasses are purely for fashion). I took an Uber to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes at Retiro, Quezon City since parking will surely be a problem. 

I was welcomed by a fiesta atmosphere.  

I bought a candle from a street vendor for Php20.  

It started to drizzle while waiting for the procession to start. 

Good thing it didn’t last long.  

Here we go!

I got to tour the surrounding areas of the parish and it was fascinating to witness faith in action.  

The procession lasted more than two hours.  

By the time we got back to the church, I was determined to give thanks and whisper my intentions to Our Lady.  

I went up to the altar to pray.  

And I witnessed the fiesta fireworks! I exited the church to briefly watch the spectacle. I love fireworks! 

I returned inside to pray in front of Padre Pio.  

Before I knew it, it was time for the procession image of Our Lady to return to the church.  

It felt like a rock concert! 

The lighting was surreal.  

And here she is! 

I stood on top of a pew like most people to get a better view of Our Lady. 

I felt blessed.  

I was so happy to have witnessed this firsthand. 

Thank you Mama Mary! 

So after the festivities, I was starving! I looked for the pares place my best friend recommended to me, and I hope I found the right one.  

It looks legit.  

I ordered beef pares with rice.  

IT WAS DELICIOUS!  

That was a magical and enjoyable night. I hope to enjoy more new experiences like this one in the coming weeks, months, and years.  

February Coffee with Diane

I started my weekend with an Ebe Dancel concert last Saturday at Trinoma. I appreciate his music because it reminds me of the best days of my college life. I had all the feels as he sang my favorites, such as Tulog Na and Burnout. 

The next morning, I did some brisk walking at UP. 

There was a color fun run, so I had the chance to peruse their pink powder. 

I had my usual ice cream sandwich: avocado and cheese!

And since it was a Sunday, my strawberry taho vendor was there to dish out this sweet dessert. 

I had to deal with some personal matters, so I was hungry by noon. I drove to Breakfast Bin for my beloved toasted naked longganisa. 

But first, I went twinning with the drinking glass.  

Finally, it was time to devour my lunch.  

I listened to some pop music while enjoying my slow Sunday meal.  

After lunch, I found two teen girls selling balloons. I bought a heart one for Diane, and I had my photo taken while holding their merchandise.  

I have always wanted to do this! 

Confession: I do buy balloons every now and then to spruce up my room. I’m forever a kid at heart! 

Then, I went back to UP to burn my lunch.  

After my afternoon walk, I bought French Vanilla coffee from a convenience store.  

And then, I delivered my Valentine’s treats to Diane. 

I tied her balloon around her stuffed flowers.  

I also got her a bracelet with a meaningful saying from Papemelroti. I hung it around her bud vase. 

As always, being with Diane was a time warp. I spent some quiet time with her. 

Before I knew it, it was time for me to go to my next engagement.  

Spending time with Diane gives me a sense of peace and tranquillity. Whenever I felt sad in high school and college, I would always run to her for advice and comfort. Now that I’m already thirty-one, I still do so. I am lucky to have her in good times and in bad. Like me, she was an only child. She knows how it is to cheer oneself up. Her memory inspires me to continue doing so. Her life motivates me to keep going.  

Thank you Diane! I will see you next month.  

Mac and Matcha

I have always wanted to eat at Le Petit Soufflé, but I never had the chance to do so.  

Until now. 

I finally had the opportunity to eat at their newly-opened branch at Mega Fashion Hall. I was fresh from the Book Binge Bazaar, and I was hungry! 

Once I saw their dreamy window, I knew I had to enter their lovely restaurant. 

I was welcomed by an interesting menu. 

I settled for Just Mac and Cheese and a hot matcha latte. While waiting for my order, I snapped some photos. 

I was delighted to sort of match my drink!

My mac and cheese was served after a few minutes, and I asked the staff to take photos of me with their dreamy interiors. It is so pretty. 

Their mac and cheese is one of the best I’ve ever had. The cheese was perfect and not cloying. It was a grown-up version of a childhood favorite. 

Plus, it goes well with their delicious matcha.  

It’s as yummy as it looks!

Everything appeals to me. 

My solo lunch at Le Petit Soufflé was a memorable one. I do recommend this place for your next lunch out! And while you’re there, take pictures, savor the food, and appreciate your surroundings. It is the ideal oasis in the middle of a busy shopping mall. 

Book Binge Friday

Yesterday, I went to the Book Binge Bazaar at Megatrade Hall. It was a Friday and I needed some new books, so it was practically a no-brainer. 

But first, I took some selfies next to these adorable balloons which matched my dress! 

I went there after lunch so my commute would be more chill. I got there at around 1:30PM. 

There were so many bibliophiles!

Crowded book fairs make me so happy! 

I got a rolling basket and got five books from the P275 area.  

This was my haul! 

Being surrounded by books makes me smile.  

This was the line to the cashier. It took me around half an hour to reach the finish line.  

I enjoyed my shopping spree because I got a delightful selection of lifestyle books. I can’t wait to read them and I hope my book adventure will give me good luck this Year of the Dog!

Begin Again

Yesterday, I claimed my bespoke ring from Studio 925. I “drew”/doodled my design for a new ring to be made out of an old one. I believe in the importance of being eco-friendly, even when it comes to jewelry. That is why for Valentine’s Day, I decided to go to Janina for a redesigned silver ring with amethyst. 

I was excited to see the finished product, and I was overjoyed when I claimed it. It was better than what I had in mind!  

Stacked with my Nawa rings

If you want to feel special, you have to start with treating yourself right. Trust me, I feel better after having this ring made because I know that it is uniquely mine. I am going to add this to my Nawa rings and I am also happy that they do not clash. 

It seems that handmade is the way for me to go this year and beyond! I hope you will also consider buying handmade and from small businesses. Oh, and if you also have silver bling at home which are in need of an overhaul, bring them to Janina!

It is always better to buy something which is locally made- and not manufactured in a mechanical assembly line. 

I am beginning again this year with a handmade lifestyle and a love for all things local! I hope you will also find your own handmade finds soon. 

Loving Vincent

I watched Loving Vincent again at the UP Cine Adarna. It was a solo movie date on a weekday, and the gloomy weather set the tone for the movie. 

I had to watch it again because a) it is showing at UP Film Center this February, b) I can’t say no to Van Gogh, and c) it is a visually arresting movie.  

Here is Cine Adarna’s schedule for February 2018. Tickets are Php150 each. 

I had a lovely solo movie date. 

The seats at Cine Adarna are mall-standard and comfortable. 

I had Rodic’s tapsilog for dinner.  

And for dessert, I had fresh strawberry graham shake at Roma and Charlie. 

If you want to unwind at an affordable price, drop by Cine Adarna and eat at UP Shopping Center. It is beginning to be my favorite campus.  

Museum of A History of Ideas

I have always wanted to visit UP Manila’s Museum of a History of Ideas, and last Saturday, I finally got to do so!

I was welcomed by a beautiful white building and lush greens. 

The museum traces the early beginnings of the University of the Philippines, which ushered in the beginning of secular education. It also features the modernization of medicine in the country.  

I love the clean design of the museum, and I also appreciate the continuity of theme in their souvenirs. I got this shirt to remind myself that ideas matter.  

I also found the inclusion of greenery refreshing and inspiring.  

Vintage medical equipment from the Philippine General Hospital are also found in the museum. 

The light and airy building removed the morbidity. 

I also got to watch a short video on the history of UP and PGH.  

The museum may be small, but is was full of information, artifacts, and light.  

There were also personal mementos from the first students of UP. 

Ended my visit with some photos by the stunning displays.  

I was glad to have made the trip to UP Manila for this museum experience. It was a breath of fresh air.  

Quiapo Church

Would you believe that I only got to visit Quiapo Church last Saturday? I did so after my San Sebastián tour. Since Quiapo Church was a few blocks away, I decided to go for it.  

I passed by some old houses along Hidalgo Street, like this one. It is a contrast of old and new.  

I found my way to Quiapo Church in no time. 

I immediately felt the vibe of a thousand prayers. It was magical. 

My short visit was worthwhile. I got to pray and reflect on the immense faith of the people who visit this popular church everyday. 

This was my second basilica for the day, and it was wonderful to finally drop by this church of the people. 

I had a simple lunch at Chowking Quiapo. My table was right beside this sidewalk vendor. I was humbled by the busy atmosphere and it was truly a memorable break from my usual weekend endeavors. 

I hope that I will experience more meaningful new things this 2018! 

Metal Health

Last Saturday, I went on a tour at the San Sebastián Minor Basilica. As a heritage conservation advocate, I am constantly on the lookout for experiences which could enable me to witness restoration efforts first-hand. Since the church is undergoing extensive restoration, I joined the tour to help support the worthwhile endeavor. 

This beautiful church is located in Quiapo, Manila. It is the first and only all-metal building in the Philippines. 

It is important to help save the basilica as it is already a part of our history. 

I was there early, so I got to roam around the church and warmed up to my beautiful surroundings.  

I also bought merch from their souvenir tent. Proceeds from the sale of their Save San Sebastián merch go to the restoration fund.  

There was no shortage of beauty in this metal wonder. 

The lighting of the chandeliers signaled the beginning of our tour.  

We began our tour by testing out the metallic surfaces on the church. I used my souvenir magnet, and yes, the basilica really is all-metal. 

This is Ysabel. She is the one-woman restoration tour guide and tech person behind the cause.  

I opened the doors and it was fascinating to see the church with awe. 

Ysabel gave us a sense of place with vintage photographs from another era.  

All the walls, columns, and ceiling panels were painted to conceal the rivets and metal parts. This church is a beautiful masterpiece in concealment.  

The restoration is being undertaken by an international team of experts in their own fields.  

As you can see, the paintings on the wall are fading fast. 

They need to be restored using the latest techniques so that the grandeur of this basilica can be preserved and brought to life. 

Our tour continued to the choir loft, where the best view of the house could be enjoyed. 

I relaxed a bit on the pews and appreciated the majestic view. 

The gothic architecture resonated with my steampunk leanings, I must admit. 

We then proceeded to the upper levels, where the concealment ends. Here, the rivets are clearly visible, and the metal parts are bare. 

Even the hidden upper levels are filled with unexpected beauty.  

I found the upper part of the ceiling beautiful. It reminded me of a ship. 

This is a sample of the restoration undertakings.  

As you can see, rust is the enemy of a metal structure. This is why it is crucial that this gem gets restored stat.  

The dome is a piece of beauty amidst the urban skyline.  

I enjoyed this, and I highly recommend that you join one of their Saturday tours! It is a chance to appreciate history, architecture, engineering, and art all in one morning. Plus, you will help support the restoration as well. 

Join the tour, take pictures, and experience Manila as it should be- with a renewed appreciation for our rich heritage.