Naga: Oragon

A Sculptural Narrative of the Heroic Bravery of the People of Naga City

"ORAGON" is a two-part visual display that captures the heroism of Naguenos by portraying two forms of bravery, with a central tapestry dividing the two juxtaposed narratives. Crafted by artist Jose Barcena, Jr., grandson of Federico Barcena who carved the monument to the 15 Bicol Martyrs at Plaza Quince Martires, it was commissioned by the City Government of Naga under the leadership of Mayor Jesse Robredo.

Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái

Singapore's Buddha Tooth-Relic Temple

The Chinese Lunar Calendar is more that two thousand five hundred years older than our Roman Calendar. It never begins on January 1st, nor does it begin on the same date each year. It can begin any time between January 21st and February 18th, depending on the date of the New Moon in Aquarius. Each year is named for an animal and every twelve years this cycle begins again. The Chinese say that the animal ruling the year you were born will influence your life. In 2012, Chinese New Year begins January 23rd and will be the year of the Dragon. As the Dragon is the only mythical animal amongst the twelve, many believe that this will be a grand and magnificent year for everyone.

Naga: Of Tracks and Trains

In one of our conversations during our recent food trips in Binondo, a famous blogger friend (itago natin sa pangalang Dong Ho) asked us what is the longest train ride we ever had. Most of my friends answered a whole-day train ride experience in and out of the country. I could only come-up with the Baclaran-North Avenue MRT ride.

My Top 10 Travels of 2011

This is the sixth time that I will be doing a Top 10 Travel list. As I look back on my past years' list, I can't help notice that most of them are really popular tourist places. I must admit that I lean towards off-the-beaten paths and even on those more popular places, there will always be a spot where you can wander and explore sans the crowd.

Basilan joined the elite club of Calaguas (2010), Sagada (2009), Boracay (2008), Siquijor (2007) and Anilao (2006) in my Numero Uno spot. What I love about Basilan is that very few outsiders travel into this place because of what media perceived it to be. Although they have every reason to caution travelers, still, beneath the alleged dangerous exterior, Basilan has some of the most beautiful and exotic spots you can enjoy.

Dangerous Beauty

Lawstude's Journeys Turns 6

Six Years of Blogging

The six most important words: I admit I made a mistake.

The five most important words: You did a good job.

The four most important words: What is your opinion?

The three most important words: If you please.

The two most important words: Thank You.

The one most important word: We.

The least important word: I

2012 - Fireworks and Some Thoughts

The connection between fireworks and new year has been known since time immemorial. It is believed that the lights produced by these fireworks will illuminate the way for the whole year and the sounds they produce will drive away bad luck.