How to Get to Badekbek Sulfur Spring in Bokod, Benguet

Your Complete Travel Guide to Benguet's Hidden Geothermal Wonder

Nestled in the pine-covered mountains of Barangay Daclan, Bokod, Benguet, Badekbek Sulfur Spring is one of the province's most unique natural attractions. Unlike the typical hot springs found across the Philippines, Badekbek features naturally steaming sulfur vents, bubbling mud pools, geothermal activity, and warm sulfur-rich water surrounded by beautiful pine forests.

If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination near Baguio or planning a side trip before or after visiting Mt. Pulag, Badekbek Sulfur Spring deserves a spot on your itinerary.

---

Where is Badekbek Sulfur Spring?

Badekbek Sulfur Spring is located in Barangay Daclan, Municipality of Bokod, Benguet, approximately 2 kilometers from the Bokod–Kabayan Road (Andres Cosalan Road).

The attraction is about:

• 50 km from Baguio City
• 2 to 3 hours travel depending on traffic and road conditions.

---

How to Get There

From Baguio City (Private Vehicle)

The easiest way is by private car or motorcycle.

Route:

Baguio City
→ Marcos Highway
→ Ambuklao Road
→ Bokod
→ Daclan
→ Badekbek Sulfur Spring

Simply follow navigation apps toward Badekbek Sulfur Spring. The road is mostly paved, although the final approach includes a short detour from the national road.

Travel time:
Approximately 2–2.5 hours

---

By Public Transportation

From Baguio City's Dangwa Terminal, ride a jeepney or bus bound for Bokod or Kabayan.

Tell the driver you're getting off at Daclan Junction or the road leading to Badekbek Sulfur Spring.

From the junction:

• Hire a tricycle if available, or
• Walk approximately 2 kilometers to the attraction.

Public transportation schedules may be limited, especially in the afternoon, so plan your return trip ahead of time.

---

Google Maps Location

The spring is listed on Google Maps and Waze as Badekbek Sulfur Spring.

Location:
GRC7+MJ8, Bokod, Benguet

---

Entrance Fee

Recent visitor reports indicate the following environmental fees:

• Adults – ₱75
• Students – ₱50

Fees may change without prior notice, so it's best to bring extra cash.

---

What Makes Badekbek Special?

Unlike ordinary hot springs, Badekbek is known for its active geothermal landscape.

Here you'll find:

• Steaming sulfur vents
• Bubbling mud pools
• Boiling geothermal craters
• Sulfur mineral deposits
• Warm sulfur pools for foot dipping
• Pine forest scenery
• Bamboo walkways and viewing areas

The smell of sulfur (similar to rotten eggs) is completely natural and comes from gases released underground.

---

What Does "Badekbek" Mean?

The name Badekbek comes from the Ibaloi language.

It refers to bubbling water, describing the continuous bubbling caused by geothermal activity beneath the ground.

---

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time is:

• Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM)
• During the dry season (November to May)

Morning visits usually offer cooler weather and more dramatic steam rising from the sulfur pools.

---

Things to Bring

✔ Comfortable walking shoes

✔ Drinking water

✔ Camera or drone (where permitted)

✔ Jacket

✔ Cash

✔ Face mask (optional if you're sensitive to sulfur odor)

---

Safety Reminders

Although the site is fenced and maintained, visitors should:

• Stay on designated pathways.
• Do not cross safety barriers.
• Never touch or step into boiling mud pools.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Follow instructions from local tourism personnel.

The boiling geothermal vents can be extremely hot.

---

Nearby Attractions

If you're already visiting Bokod, you can also explore:

• Ambuklao Dam
• Jang-Jang Bridge
• Mt. Pulag
• Bila Mountain Saddle
• Palansa Panoramic View
• Bobbok Second Growth Pine Forest

Many travelers combine these destinations into a full-day road trip.

---

Travel Tips

• Fuel up before leaving Baguio.
• Mobile signal may be weak in some areas.
• Visit on weekdays if you prefer fewer crowds.
• Wear proper footwear, especially during the rainy season.
• Respect the environment by taking your trash with you.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Is swimming allowed?

No. The main attraction is the geothermal landscape with boiling mud pools. Some warm areas are suitable only for foot dipping, when permitted.

Is it family-friendly?

Yes, but children should be closely supervised because of the hot geothermal vents.

Is the road accessible?

Yes. Most of the road is paved and accessible to motorcycles, cars, and SUVs.

How long should I stay?

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether they're taking photos or simply enjoying the scenery.

Badekbek Sulfur Spring is one of Benguet's most fascinating natural attractions. Its steaming earth, bubbling mud pools, sulfur-rich waters, and peaceful pine forest setting make it a memorable stop for nature lovers, photographers, and road trip enthusiasts. Whether you're heading to Mt. Pulag or exploring Bokod, this hidden geothermal wonder offers a unique glimpse into the natural forces shaping the Cordillera mountains.

Read More

Honest Baguio Taxi Driver Returns ₱600,000 Cash Left to t he rightful owner

Honest Taxi Driver

Wowcordillera - An honest taxi driver from Baguio City is earning widespread praise after returning a bag containing more than ₱600,000 in cash that was accidentally left behind in his taxi by representatives of Total Swiss Philippines.

The incident happened during the milestone opening of the company's first-ever branch in Baguio City. After the event, representatives of Total Swiss Philippines accidentally left a bag containing over ₱600,000 in cash on the front passenger seat of the taxi.

The driver, identified as Roger Tuebas, immediately chose to return the bag instead of keeping it, despite the financial hardships many people face today.

According to Total Swiss Philippines, Sir Roger displayed remarkable honesty and integrity by doing the right thing without hesitation. The company offered him a reward as a token of appreciation, but he humbly declined, showing that his actions were motivated purely by honesty and a clear conscience.

In a message of appreciation, the management of Total Swiss Philippines, together with its Chief Operating Officer, Noel Fruto, praised Sir Roger for his exceptional character.

"This level of honesty is so rare nowadays, and it shows the true gold inside our hardworking, tireless drivers. They work day and night under heavy traffic and tough conditions, yet their morals never waver. A high salute to you, Sir Roger Tuebas! You are an inspiration not just to us, but to all of Baguio City, representing the very best of our community."

Sir Roger's selfless act has earned admiration from many and serves as a powerful reminder that honesty and integrity remain alive in the community, inspiring countless others to always choose what is right.

Read More

Discover the Newly Constructed Hobbit House at Rock Inn & Café in Sagada

Hobbit House Sagada Rock Inn and Cafe

Wowcordillera - Hidden among pine trees and limestone formations, Rock Inn & Café in Sagada has unveiled a charming new attraction that looks like it came straight out of the pages of The Hobbit. The newly constructed two-story Hobbit House offers guests a unique place to stay, combining fantasy-inspired architecture with the warmth and rustic charm that Sagada is known for.

Nestled below Rock Inn & Café's lush lemon plantation within the property's expansive grounds, the Hobbit House enjoys a peaceful setting surrounded by towering pine trees and mountain greenery. Its location offers guests a quiet retreat where they can relax in the refreshing Sagada breeze while remaining just a short walk from the inn's other attractions and amenities.

From the moment you arrive, the Hobbit House immediately captures your attention. Its distinctive curved roof arches gracefully over the entire structure, creating the illusion of a cozy burrow nestled into the landscape. The lower level features a striking stone façade built with rounded river stones, complete with the iconic circular doorway that has become synonymous with Hobbit homes. Above it is a spacious wooden balcony overlooking the tranquil surroundings, providing the perfect spot to sip a cup of coffee while taking in the cool Sagada air.

The two-story accommodation beautifully combines natural materials such as wood and stone with modern comforts. Large glass windows welcome plenty of natural light while offering scenic views of the surrounding forest and garden. Every handcrafted wooden detail and earthy finish complements Sagada's rustic charm, making the Hobbit House feel both magical and inviting.

One of its most distinctive features is the traditional Dap-ay located beside the Hobbit House. Covered by a rustic wooden roof and surrounded by stone walls, this communal space is designed for guests to gather around a bonfire during Sagada's cold evenings. Whether sharing stories with family and friends, roasting marshmallows, or simply enjoying the warmth of the fire beneath a sky full of stars, the Dap-ay offers an authentic Cordilleran experience that perfectly complements the mountain climate.

The Hobbit House is part of Rock Inn & Café, one of Sagada's most popular accommodations. The property is well known for its scenic pine-covered grounds, cozy café, thriving lemon plantation, and the famous Wish Bridge, where visitors stop to make wishes and capture memorable photographs. Its peaceful location, just a few minutes from Sagada town proper, makes it an excellent base for exploring the municipality's caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, and other attractions.

Whether you're a fan of Tolkien's legendary tales, looking for a one-of-a-kind accommodation, or simply searching for a memorable mountain escape, the new Hobbit House at Rock Inn & Café offers an enchanting stay unlike any other in Sagada. Surrounded by nature and thoughtfully designed with both comfort and character, it promises an unforgettable experience in one of the Philippines' most beloved highland destinations.

Read More

How to Get to Tataya-en Cave: Your Complete Travel Guide to Sagada's Newest Underground Adventure

Wowcordillera - The opening of Tataya-en Cave has given travelers one more reason to visit the mountain town of Sagada. Hidden beneath the limestone mountains between Barangays Ankileng and Balugan, this remarkable cave features stunning rock formations and an underground river, making it one of the newest eco-tourism attractions in the Cordillera.

If you're planning a visit, here's everything you need to know about getting there.

Step 1: Travel to Sagada

Tataya-en Cave is located in the municipality of Sagada, Mountain Province, around 275 kilometers north of Metro Manila.

From Manila

There are several ways to reach Sagada:

By Bus (Most Convenient)

Take an overnight bus from Manila to Sagada. Major bus companies offer direct trips that usually depart in the evening, allowing you to arrive in Sagada the following morning. The journey typically takes 10 to 12 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

By Private Vehicle

If you're driving, the most common route is:

Manila → Tarlac → Nueva Ecija → Nueva Vizcaya → Ifugao → Mountain Province → Sagada

The drive usually takes around 9 to 11 hours, with breathtaking mountain scenery along the way.

Step 2: Register at the Sagada Tourism Office

Before visiting Tataya-en Cave, all tourists should register at the Sagada Tourism Office.

Registration helps local authorities manage visitor numbers, promote sustainable tourism, and ensure that every group is accompanied by an accredited local guide.

Since Tataya-en Cave is a newly opened attraction, it's a good idea to ask about:

• Tour schedules
• Entrance and guide fees
• Safety requirements
• Weather advisories
• Availability of the underground boat experience

Step 3: Travel to the Jump-Off Point

After registration, you'll travel to the cave's designated jump-off point, located near Barangays Ankileng and Balugan.

Depending on your tour arrangement, you may reach the area by:

• Tourist van
• Tricycle
• Private vehicle

Your local guide will accompany you from the jump-off point to the cave entrance.

Step 4: Enter Tataya-en Cave

The adventure begins with a guided trek to the cave entrance before descending into an incredible underground world.

Inside, visitors can expect:

• Massive limestone chambers
• Spectacular stalactites and stalagmites
• Crystal-clear underground waters
• Cool cave temperatures
• An unforgettable underground boat ride through the cave's river

The experience combines caving, nature appreciation, and eco-tourism in one exciting adventure.

What to Bring

To make your visit more comfortable, consider bringing:

• Non-slip hiking or trekking shoes
• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Extra shirt and shorts
• Waterproof bag for gadgets
• Drinking water
• Headlamp or flashlight (if recommended by your guide)
• Small towel
• Camera or action camera (only where permitted)

Safety Tips

Tataya-en Cave is a protected natural area, so visitors should help preserve its beauty by following these guidelines:

• Always stay with your accredited guide.
• Never touch or break cave formations.
• Avoid littering or leaving anything behind.
• Follow designated paths and safety instructions.
• Respect wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.

Responsible tourism helps ensure that future generations can enjoy this remarkable natural wonder.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season generally offers safer trail conditions and a more comfortable cave experience. During periods of heavy rainfall, tours may be suspended for visitor safety because underground water levels can rise quickly.

Before your trip, check with the Sagada Tourism Office for the latest weather updates and tour availability.

Make the Most of Your Sagada Adventure

Since you're already in Sagada, consider extending your stay to explore some of the town's iconic attractions, including the Hanging Coffins, Sumaguing Cave, Echo Valley, Bomod-ok Falls, Marlboro Hills, and the many cafés and local restaurants that make Sagada one of the Philippines' favorite mountain destinations.

Tataya-en Cave is more than just a new attraction—it's another reason to slow down, explore responsibly, and discover the hidden wonders that make Sagada truly unforgettable.

Read More

Tataya-en Cave: Sagada's New Underground Wonder You Need to Experience

Tataya-en cave, Sagada, Underground boating, Sagada cave, Tourism, How to, New Cave in Sagada 

Wowcordillera - For decades, Sagada has captivated travelers with its hanging coffins, majestic waterfalls, limestone caves, and sea of clouds. Now, the mountain town has unveiled another breathtaking attraction that promises to redefine adventure in the Cordillera—the newly opened Tataya-en Cave.

Officially opened to visitors on June 26, 2026, Tataya-en Cave is the latest addition to Sagada's growing list of eco-tourism destinations. Hidden beneath the mountains between the villages of Ankileng and Balugan, the cave offers a rare experience that combines spelunking with an enchanting underground river adventure.

From Local Discovery to Tourist Destination

Tataya-en Cave was first explored by residents of Barangays Ankileng and Balugan in 2023. What they discovered amazed even seasoned cave explorers—a vast limestone cave featuring crystal-clear underground waters, towering rock formations, and spacious chambers sculpted by nature over thousands of years.

Because of its unique underground river, many locals affectionately described it as the "Palawan of Sagada."

Recognizing both its tourism potential and ecological importance, the Local Government Unit of Sagada worked closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), cave experts, and local communities to conduct extensive assessments, safety inspections, and environmental studies before opening the site to the public. The cave remained closed for more than two years to ensure visitor safety and sustainable management.

A Journey Beneath the Mountains

Stepping inside Tataya-en Cave feels like entering another world.

Sunlight quickly disappears as towering limestone walls surround visitors, revealing impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over countless centuries. The air becomes cooler, the sound of dripping water echoes through the chambers, and a pristine underground river winds silently through the darkness.

One of the cave's most unforgettable experiences is the underground boat ride, allowing visitors to glide across calm waters while admiring magnificent rock formations illuminated by guide lights. The reflections dancing across the cave ceiling create an almost surreal atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Sagada.

Adventure Meets Conservation

Tataya-en Cave is more than just another tourist attraction—it's an example of responsible eco-tourism.

Before welcoming visitors, authorities ensured that the cave met environmental and safety standards under the National Caves and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act. Guided tours, controlled visitor access, and conservation measures are designed to protect its delicate ecosystem for future generations.

Visitors are encouraged to follow the principles of responsible travel:

• Never touch delicate cave formations.
• Leave no trash behind.
• Follow your accredited local guide at all times.
• Respect wildlife and the natural environment.

These simple practices help preserve one of the Cordillera's newest natural treasures.

More Reasons to Stay Longer in Sagada

Tataya-en Cave perfectly complements Sagada's iconic attractions such as Sumaguing Cave, Lumiang Burial Cave, Bomod-ok Falls, Echo Valley, Marlboro Hills, and the famous Hanging Coffins.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, photographer, nature lover, or someone simply looking to disconnect from city life, the cave offers an entirely new reason to return to this beloved mountain destination.

Travel Tips

• Wear shoes with excellent grip suitable for wet and slippery terrain.
• Bring a change of clothes, as parts of the adventure may involve getting wet.
• Follow all safety instructions from your local guide.
• Book your tour through the Sagada Tourism Office or accredited local tour operators.
• Visit during good weather for the safest and most enjoyable experience.

Discover Sagada's Hidden World

Tataya-en Cave reminds us that even in one of the Philippines' most visited mountain destinations, nature still holds secrets waiting to be discovered.

Beneath Sagada's pine-covered hills lies a hidden world of rivers, limestone cathedrals, and timeless beauty—one that has remained untouched for centuries until now.

If you're planning your next adventure in the Cordillera, make sure Tataya-en Cave is on your itinerary. It's not just another cave—it's one of the newest and most unforgettable experiences waiting beneath the mountains of Sagada.

Read More

FULL SONG AND LYRICS: OH SAGADA - SA PUSO IKAW AY KAY GANDA

Morning light on the mountain side

Cold wind dancing, trees so wide

Coffee smoke in the air so slow

Simple life where the pine trees grow

Children laughing along the way

Clouds are resting the whole day

Old folks smiling beside the fire

Hearts are calm and never tired

[Chorus]

Oh Sagada, soft and free

You feel like home to me

Quiet roads and skies so blue

Every little thing feels true

River songs and the falling rain

Wash away the heavy pain

Stars at night shine clear and bright

Sagada holds the soul so light

Stay forever in my mind

Peaceful place so warm and kind

Oh Sagada, sagada

Sa puso ko, kaw kay ganda

Read More

FULL SONG AND LYRICS: Sin Pay Kakitkitoy Ko (When I Was Young And Small) - Juanito Cadangen's AI Cover

When I was young and small

Sweet potatoes fed us all

Now I’m older, standing tall

Still love that taste most of all

You’re a pretty little lady

Saying that you care for me

But my heart’s still running free

I’m too young for love, you see

Grab your pen and paper now

Let’s head off to school somehow

Learn the things that make us proud

Knowledge lifts our future high 

Read More

IGOROT FROM MOUNTAIN PROVINCE IS SOUTHEAST ASIA'S NEW LIGHTWEIGHT ARMWRESTLING KING

Cordillera - The Philippines has sent shockwaves across Southeast Asia's armwrestling community after Cordilleran powerhouse Israel Ekid emerged victorious at the prestigious King of the Table: Southeast Asia tournament held in Sabah, Malaysia.

Representing the Philippines on one of the region’s biggest armwrestling stages, the proud Igorot from Kadaclan, Barlig, Mountain Province powered through a stacked field of elite competitors to capture the coveted Gold Medal and earn the title of Professional Lightweight Champion.

Ekid's remarkable triumph was a masterclass in strength, endurance, and technique. Facing some of Southeast Asia’s most formidable pullers, the Baguio City-based athlete battled through a grueling bracket, showcasing the relentless determination and fighting spirit that have become synonymous with Cordilleran athletes.

His championship run not only secured the lightweight crown but also marked a historic milestone for Philippine armwrestling. The victory signals the country's growing presence in the international armwrestling scene and proves that Filipino athletes can compete and win against the very best in the region.

Already recognized as one of the country's top armwrestlers, Ekid has consistently represented the Philippines in national and international competitions. His latest achievement at King of the Table Southeast Asia further cements his reputation as one of the sport’s rising stars and a proud ambassador of the Cordillera region.

By bringing home the lightweight championship title, Ekid has not only raised the Philippine flag on the international stage but has also inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence in the rapidly growing sport of armwrestling.

From the mountains of Barlig to the championship table of Southeast Asia, Israel Ekid's golden victory stands as a powerful reminder that Filipino strength, grit, and determination can conquer any challenge.

The King of the Table Lightweight Crown is now in Philippine hands and Southeast Asia is officially on notice.

Read More

FROM BONTOC TO THE SKIES: PCPT MCKRIZZ JEPERJOE C. SERRANO MAKES HISTORY AS BONTOC'S FIRST PNP HELICOPTER PILOT

Wowcordillera - A proud son of Bontoc, Mountain Province, and a distinguished member of PNPA Hinirang Class of 2021, Police Captain MCKRIZZ JEPERJOE CHERWAKEN SERRANO has added another remarkable achievement to his growing career in public service after successfully completing the Basic Helicopter Pilot Training (BHPT) of the PNP Air Unit and securing the Top 8 position among his classmates.

His accomplishment carries historic significance as he becomes the First PNP Helicopter Pilot directly from Bontoc, Mountain Province, a milestone that brings immense pride and honor to his hometown and the entire Cordillera Region. 

Through dedication, perseverance, and excellence, PCPT Serrano has broken new ground and paved the way for future generations of aspiring Cordilleran aviators.

The Basic Helicopter Pilot Training is a specialized program that prepares PNP personnel for aviation operations by providing intensive instruction in helicopter systems, flight procedures, aerial navigation, emergency response, and mission execution. Graduates of the course are trained to support law enforcement operations, disaster response, search and rescue missions and humanitarian assistance efforts across the country.

As one of the top-performing graduates of the course, PCPT Serrano demonstrated exceptional determination and professionalism throughout the demanding training. 

His achievement reflects not only personal excellence but also the enduring spirit of service and resilience that characterize the people of Bontoc.

Read More

ISLAY ERIKA BOMOGAO - THE PRETTIEST FACE IN MUAYTHAI

Photo Courtesy || Islay Erika Bomoga

Wowcordillera - When you look at fighters like Stamp Fairtex and Islay Erika Bomogao, you really get a glimpse of how diverse and exciting the fight world has become.  Nadthawan Panthong also known as Stamp Fairtex grew from a Muay Thai prodigy in Thailand to a full-blown multi-style superstar. She’s the type who started with pure striking, then suddenly adds a BJJ purple belt and MMA knockouts into the mix like it’s just another day at the gym. She’s polished, playful, and dangerous all at once... the kind of athlete who makes combat sports feel fun even when she’s throwing elbows.

On the other side, you have Islay, a proud Igorota from Cordillera, who feels like the Philippines’ homegrown lightning bolt. She didn’t just compete, she climbed up the IFMA rankings until she hit world No. 1, putting Filipino Muay Thai on the international radar in a way that felt fresh and overdue. She fights with that sharp, compact power you see in lighter-weight strikers, the type of style that doesn’t waste time or movement. When she’s competing, you feel the pride, not just for the win, but for the representation.

What’s cool is how different their journeys are, but how they both break ceilings in their own ways. Stamp is the global star who mastered multiple disciplines; Islay is the rising Filipina icon rewriting expectations for what our local fighters can accomplish. One is already a household name, the other is building toward it  but both remind us that combat sports isn’t just about power or belts. It’s also about identity, culture, and proving that fighters from Southeast Asia can dominate any stage they step on.

In a way, watching Stamp and Islay is like watching two chapters of a story unfolding at the same time, one written in Thailand, one written in the Philippines, but both pushing the limits of what’s possible for female fighters today. They’re different, they’re dynamic, and honestly, they make the fight game a whole lot more interesting.

Read More

TWICE THE HONOR: Kapangan Twins Graduate Magna Cum Laude at BSU

Photo Courtesy || Alimba Jycee

 KAPANGAN, Benguet — Pride and celebration fill the municipality of Kapangan as twin sisters Angela Trisha Alimba and Angeli Trixie Alimba achieved an extraordinary academic milestone after both graduating Magna Cum Laude from the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management program of Benguet State University Class of 2026.

Making their achievement even more remarkable, Angela Trisha emerged as the Top 1 Magna Cum Laude, while Angeli Trixie secured the Top 2 Magna Cum Laude spot among the three Magna Cum Laude honorees in their graduating batch.

The Alimba twins have long been known for their dedication to academics. From their elementary years through junior and senior high school and into college, they consistently earned recognition as academic achievers.

Their journey, however, was not without challenges. Behind their success were countless sleepless nights, sacrifices, tears, moments of doubt, educational travel expenses, and the many obstacles that come with pursuing higher education. Yet through every setback and struggle, the sisters remained determined, refusing to give up on their dreams.

Their achievement stands as an inspiration to young Cordillerans, proving that perseverance, discipline, and hard work can lead to remarkable success.

Today, Kapangan and the entire Cordillera celebrate not just one outstanding graduate, but two sisters whose dedication and resilience have brought honor to their family, community, and school.

Read More

IGOROT FROM SABANGAN IS TOP 3 IN PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY

Cordillera - Born to a hardworking construction worker father from Sabangan and a dedicated public school teacher mother from Gerona, Tarlac, Thomas grew up in Angeles City, Pampanga. Life was never handed to him easily. Like many Filipino families, his parents worked tirelessly to give him and his dreams a brighter future. His father endured long days under the heat at construction sites, while his mother devoted herself to shaping young minds in public school classrooms.

Through their sacrifices, Thomas learned the value of discipline, humility, perseverance, and hard work at an early age.

Today, those values have carried him to one of the highest honors inside the country’s premier military institution. As a First Class Cadet of the Philippine Military Academy and one of the Top 3 cadets of his graduating class, Thomas stands as proof that determination, family sacrifices, and pride in one’s roots can take a person far.

But beyond medals, rankings, and achievements, what makes his story inspiring is his deep pride in his identity.

Though he grew up away from the mountains of the Cordillera, Thomas never hesitated to acknowledge the place where his bloodline began. He proudly embraces his connection to Sabangan and the Cordilleran people, showing that identity is not only about where a person is raised, but also about the heritage, values, and culture they carry in their heart.

His journey also reflects the silent heroism of many Filipino parents. Behind every successful child are parents who sacrificed comfort, endured hardships, and continued believing even during difficult times. Thomas openly honors his father’s honest labor as a construction worker and his mother’s dedication as a public teacher — a reminder that greatness can rise from simple beginnings.

For many young Cordillerans and Filipinos, his story is more than just about academic excellence or military achievement. It is about staying grounded, honoring one’s roots, and proving that dreams are possible regardless of where you come from.

Cadet First Class Thomas Edgar Isla Sepulchre now stands not only as a future officer of the nation, but also as a proud son of hardworking parents and a proud Cordilleran by blood — carrying with him the strength, humility, and resilience that define the people of the mountains.

Read More

READ: FULL SPEECH OF IGOROT DOCTOR ERWIN KEN A. PARCHASO

Cordillera - Read the full speech of Dr. Erwin Ken Angcual Parchaso, the Igorot topnotcher in the March 2026 Physicians Lycensure Examination.

Good morning to the members of the Professional Regulation Commission, the Philippine Medical Association, the Board of Medicine, faculty members, proud parents, and my fellow new physicians.

Hello. Yes, that's my name up there. And no, my name is not "Name Withheld."

I know there was some confusion about that. But I'm here today. Very much real. Very much grateful.

I want to share a bit of my journey, because I believe someone out there needs to hear it.

I am a retaker. Well, supposedly a third taker. But on my second attempt, I didn't even show up. I sat at home, stared at my books, and admitted: "I'm not ready."

Let me take you back to my very first take.

I was deep in sleepless nights. Coffee gone cold. Heart racing. Then came news that stopped me cold: my girlfriend, now my wonderful wife, told me she was pregnant.

It wasn't in our plan. Not at that moment. We weren't ready, or so we thought.

I was rattled. My mind couldn't focus on textbooks when my heart was already somewhere else, thinking about the future, about the little life coming, about how I could possibly be both a father and a doctor.

I failed that first take. Not because I wasn't smart enough. But because life happened. And honestly? I wouldn't trade that failure for anything. It gave me something more valuable than a license, it gave me my family.

By my second take, I had a baby on the way and a wife finding her way through motherhood. The sleepless nights were different now, less studying, more running for my wife’s cravings. I knew walking into that exam hall would have been a disservice to myself and to the dream I still wanted to honor.

So I stayed home. Held my wife. And told her: "Not yet. But soon."

That decision gave me time. To breathe, to heal, to prepare. Not just academically, but mentally and emotionally. When I finally stood at the testing center this March, I wasn't perfect. But I was ready.

After my third take, the waiting began. When the results came out, I didn't see my name. I was crying outside our house. I saw that the topnotcher was "Name Withheld" and under investigation. Sabi ko, "Siya siguro ang rason bakit hindi ako pumasa. Hindi ako pasok sa curve dahil sa kanya. Buti nga sa kanya! Under investigation siya!"

Speculations started. People talked. Some assumed the worst.

Then came the plot twist I never expected.

That "Name Withheld" I was blaming? It was me.

I was crying over my own name. Wishing ill on myself without knowing it.

When I found out I was the topnotcher, I laughed and cried at the same time. But mostly, I learned something: sometimes the biggest obstacle isn't the exam, or the PRC, or the curve. It's ourselves.

Once I got past that, I was finally free.

And that brings me to you.

I want to speak directly to those of you who have taken this exam more than once. Those who have felt the sting of a failing score. Those who have watched batchmates move on while you stayed behind.

I see you. I was you.

Ten years. That's how long it took me to become a licensed doctor. Medicine alone not including pre-med. Ten years of carrying a dream that felt heavier every time I fell short.

There were nights I cried in the dark so my wife wouldn't hear. Nights I held my child and wondered if I was failing him too. Nights I stared at my books until the words blurred and asked God, "Why can't I get this right?"

My second take, I didn't even show up. I sat at home while others walked into the exam center. I told myself I wasn't ready. But the truth? I was afraid. Afraid of failing again. Afraid of disappointing everyone who believed in me. Afraid that maybe, just maybe, I wasn't meant to be a doctor at all.

That fear almost broke me.

But here's what I learned in those ten years: you don't have to be unbreakable to be strong. You just have to keep showing up. Even when it hurts. Even when you're embarrassed. Even when you want to disappear.

I know what it's like to smile at family gatherings and pretend everything is fine. To carry the weight of "not yet" while everyone around you seems to have already arrived.

But listen carefully: you are not behind. You are not a failure. You are not your past scores.

Those years were not wasted. They were preparing you, for patience, for humility, for the kind of compassion you can only learn through your own suffering.

When you finally stand where I'm standing, and you will. You’ll understand the title "doctor" means more when you've walked through fire to earn it.

So please, don't give up. Not because it's easy, but because you're still here. And being here, still trying, still hoping, still believing is already proof that you have what it takes.

I took ten long, painful, beautiful years. And I would walk every single one of them again if it meant standing here today and telling you:

We can do it. You can do it. And when you do, it will be worth every tear.

And so .

To my parents Lodania Ang Parchaso Lito Retuya Parchasoand my siblings Karen Angcual Parchaso Niver Sumer Parchaso Joshua Angcual Parchaso Jamaica Loise, thank you for not asking too many questions when I stayed home on my second take. Thank you for the silent prayers. For the money for meals when I forget to eat. You never made me feel like a failure. You just made me feel loved. Thank you for the never ending support.

Now I need to speak to the woman who changed everything. Jael Kei,

When you told me you were pregnant during my first take, during my chaos, I was rattled. I thought, "How can I be a doctor when I don't even know how to be a dad?"

But you never doubted me. Not once.

You held me when I failed. You fed me when I forgot to eat. You took care of our child while I buried myself in books. And on the nights I wanted to quit, you looked at me and said: "pano na ung pangrap kong maging housewife."

You are the reason I'm standing here. Not just because you supported me, but because you believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself.

I love you. Thank you for the best kind of chaos.

To my child, Zackary, one day you'll hear this story. And I want you to know: everything I did, every sleepless night, every retake, every tear, I did for you.

You are my "why." I hope I make you proud. But more than that, I hope you learn that falling doesn't mean you're out. It just means you're human.

I love you, Zack.

To my university, my alma mater Lyceum-Northwestern University, thank you for shaping me long before this moment. You didn't just teach me medicine. You built my foundation. You gave me the tools, the values, and the discipline that carried me through every sleepless night and every failed attempt. I would not be standing here without the years you invested in me.

To the hospital, BGHMC Baguio, where I trained as an intern, thank you for the real-world lessons no textbook could teach. For the long hours, the difficult cases, the mentors who corrected me gently and pushed me to be better. You sharpened not just my mind, but my hands and my heart.

To my review center Wise.owl by LM Academy, thank you for sharpening my knowledge when I needed it most. For breaking down the impossible into something I could actually understand. For not giving up on me even when I took longer than most.

To Doctor Marco Francisco S. Duque, Dra. Agnes G. Dimaano, and everyone at my school who reached out when I was lost, you gave me clarity. You treated me with dignity when I felt my name had become "Withheld."

Thank you for seeing me. Not as a number. Not as a case. But as one of your own.

I hope I've made all of you proud.

To my fellow new physicians, we made it.

Whether this was your first take or your tenth. Whether you passed with flying colors or by a single point. Whether your name was withheld or published immediately. We are here. And no one can take that away from us.

I dedicate this Top 1 to all of us who made it through the hardships and to those who will still be taking the exam. Your time is coming.

The road was hard. Some of us lost sleep. Some lost hope for a while. Some had to learn that being a doctor starts long before you have a license. It starts with courage, humility, and refusing to give up on the people who need us.

So as we take our oath today, with tears or with smiles. Let us remember, we are not just passing an exam. We are answering a calling.

Go. Heal. Serve. And never forget where you came from.

Congratulations, my fellow doctors.

And finally, let me introduce myself properly.

I'm Erwin Ken Angcual Parchaso. Not withheld. Not hidden. Just here.

God bless us all.

Read More