All The WOW News in Cordillera

Showing posts with label Sagada. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sagada. Show all posts

Monday, March 11, 2024

Igorota PH Air Force Officer from Sagada is among 2024 OWLENS Awardees

Photo Courtesy || Republic Defenders

Cordillera - Philippine Air Force Officer 1LT Lei Vanette D. Alangui is one of the 2024 OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AND NATIONAL SECURITY (OWLENS) AWARDEES. 

1LT Alangui who traces her roots to Sagada, Mt. Province is among the women in PH law enforcement and national security who have surmounted many obstacle and shown skills, unique perspectives, creative ideas, and teamwork.

1Lt Alangue, a registered nurse and working full time as a certified military pilot of the Philippine army. 

1LT Alangue is among the Philippine Air Force pilots who came from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

The OWLENS, a brainchild of Republic Defenders (RD) in partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation is an annual search to honor the exemplary contributions of Filipino women in the fields of law enforcement and national security.

OWLENS helps to inspire and motivate Filipino women by recognizing outstanding performance that have greater impact in the organization, the communities and the public.

PLt. Alangui is now among the PAF pilots who came from the Cordillera Administrative Region. 

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Monday, October 2, 2023

Sagada's Sumaguing Cave Reopens to Thrilled Tourists on October 1, 2023

Photo Courtesy || Allan Martin Tamayo

Cordillera - After a one-month hiatus, the breathtaking Sumaguing Cave, renowned for its stunning stalactite formations, is now ready to welcome eager tourists once more. 

"This is to lift the advisory issued 30 August 2023, Closing Sumaguing Cave for the whole month of September. To inform the public that, starting 01 October 2023, said site is now open to tourists," Sagada Tourism wrote in a Facebook post. 

To recall, the local government of Sagada made the bold decision to temporarily close this world-famous natural wonder during the whole month of September to allow the cave to rejuvenate and ensure its long-term preservation.

Sumaguing Cave, often referred to as the "Big Cave," boasts an otherworldly subterranean landscape with majestic rock formations that have captivated explorers and adventure seekers for generations. Visitors can look forward to embarking on a memorable journey through its labyrinthine chambers, marveling at the ethereal beauty of limestone formations, and cooling off in crystal-clear underground pools.

This reopening presents an excellent opportunity for tourists to connect with nature, appreciate the wonders of geological history, and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Sumaguing Cave is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and awe-inspiring experience in the heart of the Philippines. Don't miss the chance to explore its mystical depths and witness the magic of nature up close!

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Thursday, August 3, 2023

WATCH: Foreigner tries momma for the first time and he nearly couldn't get up

Photo Courtesy || Fearless and Far YT

Cordillera - In a zany quest for authentic Igorot experiences, Mike, a curious foreigner, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Sagada, Philippines. Eager to embrace local traditions, he bravely decided to try "momma" or betel nut chewing, an age-old custom of the Cordillerans.

Excitedly, with the helped of his new friends, Mike chomped down on the momma, unaware of the impending hilarity that would unfold. As the powdered lime called 'apog', tobacco, and betel nut concoction met his taste buds, his eyes widened with astonishment. Suddenly, he felt an eruption of heat, causing him to sweat profusely, turning him into a human fountain.

His attempts to maintain composure were futile, as his body jittered like a hyperactive kid on a sugar rush. Mike's heart danced the cha-cha inside his chest, while his mind wondered if he had inadvertently plugged into an electric socket.

In his video blog, Mike recounted this bizarre experience, leaving his viewers in stitches. He described the locals' meticulous process of preparing momma, carefully wrapping it with a 'gawed' leaf, which he hilariously mistook for an origami masterclass gone wrong.

As he regained his senses, Mike couldn't help but laugh at his misadventure. Despite the whirlwind of sensations, he applauded the cordial Cordillerans for preserving their unique culture through this age-old tradition. However, he did issue a friendly warning to future adventurers, advising them to approach momma with caution unless they're eager to become the next comedy sensation.


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Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Igorot from Mt. Province crowned Mr. Earth Philippines, Mr. Continental International Ambassador 2023

Photo Courtesy || Kurt Santiago

Cordillera - Proud son of Mt. Province Kurt Justin Santiago as been crowned as the new Mister Earth Philippines and Mister Continental International Ambassador 2023.

Mr. Kurt Justin Santiago who traces his roots to Sagada and Bontoc, Mt. Province also bagged the Air 2023 Ambassador Universe Continental Internation 2023 in the just concluded Tourism Ambassador Universe 2023 held on Kota, Kinabalu, Malaysia in June 5, 2023.

Santiago was designated as the new Mr. Earth Philippines for 2023-24 after the resignation of Anson Kyle Tanumtanum of Pampanga.

The newly crowned Mr. Earth Philippines is a graduate of the course Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a now working as a freelance consultant.

On December 2022, Santiago was crowned Mr. Earth Philippines-Air 2022 during the pageant in Cainta, Rizal where he also bagged the Best in Leap, Mr. Congeniality, Best in Swim Wear, Online Choice Award and Best in Arrival Award.

Mr. Earth Philippines is the only credible male pageant in the country that showcases young and ambitious males around the country, and a venue for social-environmental platforms and nationalism, serving and creating future leaders and ambassadors.

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Monday, February 20, 2023

LOOK: Stunning beauty of Sagada's Sumaguing Cave by Kalasag Fotografia

Photo Courtesy || Kalasag Fotografia

Cordillera - Sumaguing Cave is a popular tourist destination located in the municipality of Sagada, in the Mountain Province of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural rock formations, underground rivers, and unique cave features, such as stalactites and stalagmites.

Photo Courtesy || Kalasag Fotografia


Photo Courtesy || Kalasag Fotografia

Visitors can explore the cave through guided tours, which can be physically demanding due to the steep and slippery terrain. However, the rewards of the tour are well worth the effort, as visitors are treated to a breathtaking underground world.

The Sumaguing Cave is not only a natural wonder, but it also holds cultural significance to the people of Sagada, who believe that it is a sacred place that must be treated with respect and reverence.

To view more photos of Sumaguing Cave, visit Kalasag Fotografia FB page HERE

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Sunday, January 8, 2023

10th Sagada Etag Festival set to be celebrated on February 2-5, 2023


Cordillera - The municipality of Sagada is set to celebrate its 10th installment of the Annual Sagada Etag Festival for the Year 2023 with the theme: "Napigsa ay Kultura ya Pammati, Wedweday i-Gabay ya Isikan di Umili," on February 2-5, 2023. 

The Sagada municipality unveiled the Calendar of Activities lined up in the upcoming celebration of the festival. 

These includes the Civic Parade & Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Presentation of the Lord Jesus Crist which is schedule on February 2, 2023; Cultural Day on February 4, 2023; Agro-Gastro Fair & Launching of the Sagada Tourism Tagline on March 4, 2023.

The Sagada Etag Festival was conceptualized in 2010 by the Sangguniang Bayan of Sagada. The conceptualization of the Festival name was in consideration of the economic and social values of the Sagada Igorots.

ETAG refers to a salted meat processed for preservation in different ways. It is a most important part of any ritual performed for any occasion in the life of Sagada. In rituals, it is used by itself or cooked with chicken, and with the prayers of the old men. “Gobbaw”, weddings, building a house, offering of prayers are just some of the rituals where ETAG is a key ingredient.

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Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Sagada Mayor Felicito Dula shows authentic Sagada Orange

Photo Courtesy || Public Information Office - City of Baguio

Cordillera - To help buyers identify the real Sagada orange over the fake ones that are being sold in the market, Sagada Mayor Felicito Dula presented the authentic orange during his visit in Baguio city on August 9, 2022. 

The mayor sought to dispel misinformation on their orange produce caused by misbranding by some traders who attach the town's name to the imported kind to attract buyers especially tourist, according to Baguio PIO.

Sagada orange gained popularity as the best and top-selling orange in the Cordillera such as in Baguio City and thus become a marketing label used by deceptive sellers in order to sell their oranges that were imported from China. 

Recently, the city government of Baguio began a crackdown on businesses engaged in deceptive marketing schemes following a report from a buyer who encountered a vendor selling fake Sagada oranges. 

Mayor Dula's appearance and presenting the real Sagada orange would help tourists and buyers to identify the real orange over the fake ones. 

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Monday, May 31, 2021

Igorot army awarded highest military award for his gallantry in action - The Gold Cross Award

Photo Courtesy || Armed Forces of the Philippines

Cordillera - A proud Igorot from Sagada has been a recipient of the Gold Cross Award from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

2LT Lester Soliba Depot was awarded the Gold Cross Medal which is the 4th highest military award given to a soldier in recognition for his gallantry in action.

READ ALSO:  Ifugao Scout Ranger Officer Ruben Guinolbay recommended AFP Medal of Valor

It is awarded by the Chief of Staff of the AFP or other senior commanders to any members of the Armed Forces who have shown bravery in battle.

READ ALSO: Igorot captain gets ‘2nd highest military award’ by Pres. Duterte

Depot is a member of the operating troops of the 39th Infantry Battalion, 10th Infantry (AGILA) Division of the Philippine Army. 

READ ALSO: Kalinga soldier receives second highest combat medal from Pres. Duterte

The Battalion was successful in the combat operation against Pulang Bagani Command, Southern Regional Committee 3, Southern Mindanao Region Committee at Makilala, North Cotabato which resulted in the apprehension of seven (7) High Valued Individuals and the capture of eleven (11) High-Powered Firearms and war materials.

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Monday, May 17, 2021

Igorota from Sagada is Air Force Top 1 of PMA Laon Alab Class 2011

Photo Courtesy || Janice Matbagan
Cordillera - A proud Igorota from Sagada, Mt. Province was among the top 10 graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Laon Alab or Lakas Tipon Alagad ng Bayan Class of 2011.

22-year old Cadet 1st Class Janice Matbagan, who traces her roots to Kiltepan and Antadao, Sagada is the recipient of the Joint United States Military Advisory Group Award being a top Philippine Air Force graduate of the class.

READ ALSO: Col. Dencio Acop - First Igorot to graduate from U.S. Military Academy WEST POINT

Matbagan was also the Class Tarzan or the recipient of the Ahtletic Saber for her exemplary skill in sport particularly in marathon, swimming and sport.

She was also an awardee of the Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.

Matbagan dedicated her success in the academy to her father who didn't want her to pursue her dream to be a soldier.

READ ALSO: P2LT. Lei Vanette Alangui - First Igorota to graduate from Philippine Airforce Military Training Class of 2019

"All my life, I really wanted to please my father but becoming a soldier is a calling to me. Matbagan said in a local news interview.

"It would be happier if my father is alive because I'm not expecting to be in the top 10," she added.

Cadet Matbagan studied nursing for two years at Saint Louis University and Easter College before entering the premier military school in the country.

Her townmates in Sagada meanwhile, were very proud on her achievement because she was the only female and Cordilleran among the topnotchers.

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Monday, November 23, 2020

Igorot Judoka wins Gold Medal in Pan American Judo Senior Championship in Mexico

Photo Courtesy || Reyes
Cordillera - A Cordilleran son from Sagada who represent Canada won gold medal in the recently concluded Pan American  Senior Judo Championship in Guadalara, Mexico. 

Kyle Surik Reyes, a son of Sagada ousted American L.A Smith III in an earlier match. He later beat another American Nathaniel Keeve to earn the bronze medal in 100Kg. 

Reyes is among the Canadian Judo team who earn medals in the competition. 

The Canadian team will return to Canada with a total of seven medals, finishing second overall behind Brazil. 

READ ALSO:  

Igorot MMA fighter Joshua Pacio among ESPN’s top MMA fighters under 25

Igorot jiu jitsu practitioner bags gold medal in the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Tour in the United Kingdom

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Thursday, April 9, 2020

iSagada Covid-19 Survivor turned to faith and prayer, says COVID-19 is not a joke

Photo Courtesy || Sagada Rural Health Unit
Cordillera - A brave COVID-19 survivor from Sagada turned to faith and prayer as his motivation to fight the deadly virus. 

"Let's always keep our faith in the Lord burning. He answers all prayers. We stay safe and healthy". says Law Aben Timpac who was discharge from the hospital after recovering from the virus.
The coronavirus is an infection in the lungs that includes some cases of what people would call the common cold. When it worsens, it can causes havoc with the immune system that can lead to long-term lung damage or death. 

There are no specific treatments or cure for covid-19 as yet, though some scientists are working to create a vaccine for it. 

For these reasons, Law has a message to everyone. 

"May I set as a proof that this COVID-19 is not a joke. May we have the discipline. It would also be critical to unite with our government in order to cease this pandemic," Timpac wrote in a FB post.

He also thank his supportive family including the Baguio General Hospital frontliners who took good care of him during his quarantine. 
"I'd like to thank my ever supportive family and friends and a lot of people including the frontliners of Baguio General Hospital who fought with me throughout my struggle with the COVID-19. It was rough but with your message and prayers, we won the battle," he said.

On Thursday, The Benguet General Hospital decided to have a heartwarming send-off ceremony for Timpac, who were met with with applause from the frontliners and hospital staff.

"Thank you Baguio General Hospital staff for making my send-off a super duper special one. I can't express how delighted I was with your effort. Thank you," Timpac said.
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Thursday, January 9, 2020

Igorota recognized as Most Influential Filipina woman in the World


Cordillera - Partnership coordinator of Plan International Switzerland Lorena Domanog-Clerc was honored with the prestigious Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World by the San Francisco-based organization Filipina Women's Network (FWN).

The Filipina Women's Network recognizes women from the Philippines who are changing the face of leadership in the global workplace, having reached the status for outstanding work in their respective fields and are recognized for their contributions to society, "femtorship" (female mentorship) and legacy. 
Photo Courtesy || Lorena Domanog-Clerc

Domanog-Clerc was recognized by the organization as a "Behind the Scenes Leader" during the 16th Filipina Leadership Summit held last year. 

The Sagada, Mountain Province native was honored for her "contributions towards women empowerment and the promotion and appreciation of indigenous cultures."

"The Global FWN100 awardees are innovators and thought leaders, dynamic entrepreneurs, rising stars under age 35, practitioners, behind-the-scenes leaders and public service advocates, who have move through the ranks in the public and private sectors. They are magnificent women doing extraordinary work motivating next generation leaders," said Marily Mondejar, CEO of the FWN. 

"Lorena Domanog-Clerc is now a valued partner in helping FWN develop the Filipina community's pipeline of qualified leaders to increase the odds that some will rise to the "president" position in all sectors of the global economy," said Dr. Carol Enriquez, FWN board member and president and CEO of Our Lady of Fatima University.

source || https://www.ffwn.org/

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Sunday, December 22, 2019

Ayala, no plans for acquisition and development in the town of Sagada.

Cordillera - Ayala Land Inc. has tweeted on December 23, 2019 clarifying the reports circulating online that the company is planning to acquire and develop private property in the town of Sagada. 
"In line with the news currently circulating online, we would like to keep the public well informed", the tweet said. 

An accompanying photo post reads, "We would like to inform the public that Ayala Land Inc. has no plan of acquisitions and development in the town of Sagada."

The tweet comes after a news circulated that Ayala group of companies is planning to develop a 20-hectare private property owned by a local family into a massive recreation sites.

A petition has also been created by Sagada residents opposing the plan. 
"We firmly oppose the entry of Ayala or anybody who would dispossess us of our ancestral heritage. This is our patrimony and must remain so for generations, this is a statement upholding Sagada customary laws that our land is not for sale, lease, and mortgage, patenting to outside private and corporate entities," the petition read.

READ ALSO: Netizens united to protect Sagada from Ayala planning to build recreation sites
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Netizens united to protect Sagada from Ayala planning to build recreation sites

Photo Courtesy || Naks PH
Cordillera - Social media netizens have voiced out their opposition of a Manila-based corporation to develop a 20-hectare private property in Sagada into a massive tourism sites. 

In a Facebook post campaign #NoToAyalaInSagada by a Facebook page Naks PH which reached almost 1 million shares with 600 comments, many netizens have commented they are with the people of Sagada in opposing this big corporation setting foot in their town. 

This comes after Sagada Mayor James Pooten confirmed a report that Ayala group of companies is planning to develop a 20-hectare private property owned by a local family into a massive recreation site. 

In a comment, concerned netizens reminded iSagada of the possible bad effect of the plan with regards to the environment because big establishment will just destroy the natural beauty of Sagada.

One netizen wrote, "Keep Sagada from becoming another Baguio. Sagada now is described as having the atmosphere of Baguio back in the 1960s. Baguio was more attractive in the 1960s. Too much commercial tourism will kill Sagada's mystique".

Another one commented, "A big NO! I hope that Sagada, regardless of their booming tourism would greatly consider preserving whatever is left of the natural resources. Honestly, considering Sagada's condition right now, it's already becoming "suffocating". It's actually one of my favorite run to places and that the people of Sagada will resist whatever big companies has to offer." 

The campaign which is now trending online had strong message to iSagada not to allow any outsiders from taking their lands in exchange for a small return, but have a big detrimental effect to the environment.

"Enough of the cutting of trees and destroying our precious land in the Cordilleras by this capitalist who only care about profits. Sagada can survive without this big corporations. Sagada has thriving and sustainable tourism. Tourists and visitors come to Sagada because of the beautiful people and amazing places." the campaign post read. 

Many netizens stated that they are not in favor of any kind of big establishments to be built in the town because this will just destroy the natural beauty of their town. 

In order to protect Sagada from these rich businessmen and oligarchs, a petition has been made by residents. 

"We firmly oppose the entry of Ayala or anybody who would dispossess us of our ancestral heritage. This is our patrimony and must remain so for generations, this is a statement upholding Sagada customary laws that our land is not for sale, lease, and mortgage, patenting to outside private and corporate entities." the petition read.

Petitioners claimed that Sagada has been blessed with a spectacular landscape and source of life, pride for the people, and the envy of visitors who come form adventure, employment and relaxation, Sunstar reported.

"Rich businessmen and oligarchs, showbiz personalities, have expressed interest to buy, lease or control our land. We have a long historical tradition of fighting for our communal and ancestral lands. We have denied entry of Cellophil, Philcarbon, big mining corporate interests. Now once more dark clouds hover above community, posting danger not only to local businesses but to Sagada's overall social governance by giving way to outside moneyed interests while to eventually pushing local political leaders to margins," the petition added.

source || Naks PH, Sunstar.
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Saturday, November 9, 2019

Sagada mobilizes "Oplan SAYOTE" to help North Cotabato earthquake victims

Photo Courtesy || Mt.Province DRRM Office
Cordillera - As part of the efforts to extend assistance to the earthquake victims in Mindanao, the local government unit of Sagada mobilizes "Oplan Sayote" to collect sayote vegetables from farmers and donors.

A truck traveled around the town of Sagada to pick up Sayote from farmers and donors. They have collected about 25 large sacks of Sayote to be transported to the Department of Agriculture Cordillera office and will be delivered later on to Cotabato.

Photo Courtesy || Mt.Province DRRM Office

Photo Courtesy || Mt.Province DRRM Office

In a post from Sagada muncipality Facebook page, it says "Sagada is blessed with the abundance of Sayote. For the victims of Earthquakes in Cotabato, Sagada sends its abundance to the victims of this calamity. We pray for your safety. 

On October 29, North Cotabato was rocked by a 6.5 magnitude earthquakes that killed more than a dozen people and severely damaged buildings and houses and left people abandoned their homes for safety.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, an estimated 12,000 people were evacuated to government shelters because their homes have been destroyed and some of them are afraid to return. 

The initial estimated damage has amounted to P4.55 million, particularly in North Cotabato.
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Monday, November 4, 2019

Sagada Coffee wins international award for the second time in Milan, Italy

Photo Courtesy || SGD Coffee FB
Cordillera - The SGD Coffee grown in Northern Sagada and the Mirabueno Coffee of Bukidnon won top awards at the 5th International Contest of Coffees Roasted in Milan on October 21, 2019. 

The two Philippine coffee firms bested 700 other coffee producers from 25 countries for the Gourmet and Bronze prizes in different categories. 

The award has proved that coffee from the Philippines are top-notched in terms of quality and are one of the finest in the world.

"We hope that with this recognition, we are able to highlight Philippines' coffee and the great work of Filipino coffee farmers like those behind Mirabueno Coffee and SGD Coffee, growing one of the finest coffees in the world to be true artisans of the Philippines' coffee industry," CHP official Richard Watanabe said.

The award was given by the Agency pour la Valorisation des Produits Agricoles (AVPA) to Chargé d'Affaires Mersole J. Mellejor of the Philippine Consul General's Office in Milan. 

AVPA is a Paris-based "non-governmental, non-profit organization, mainly composed of producers and taste enthusiasts. The association's goal is to enhance the value of agricultural products and to recognize the excellence of some producers, to often forgotten in the midst of mass marketing."

READ ALSO: Sagada organic coffee wins international award in Paris

This marks the second time for the Philippine coffee to bagged top awards in the coffee contest since Bana's Coffee from Sagada won the Gourmet prize in 2017. 

Coffee Heritage Project officer Butch Acop said the coffee competition is a way for them to showcase their work in the development of land through sustainable and ecological integration of coffee. 

"The coffee competition helps us showcase the broader work we do to reforest land with sustainable and ecological integration of coffee, the high returns and quality of life offered to coffee growers, and our endless pursuit of the next frontiers in coffee roasting and taste," Acop said.

READ ALSO:  Where to find the "best bread in the Philippines"? Answer: In SAGADA

The Department of Trade and Industry said Sagada Coffee and Mirabueno Coffee are part of The Coffee Heritage Project (TCHP) in the Philippines which takes 'quality-focused approaches in coffee production."

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Monday, June 3, 2019

Honest taxi driver from Sagada returns lost mobile phone to owner

As posted by Marlon Bernard Baso on Facebook
Photo Courtesy || Marlon Bernard Baso
Cordillera - An honest taxi driver Mr. Joseph Inso from Sagada, Mt. Province returned the cellphone which was accidentally dropped from the pocket of my niece at the front seat of the taxi Ganduyan. 

We boarded the taxi at Lubas going to Km 4, La Trinidad, Benguet at about past 9am last Sunday - May 26, 2019 when the cellphone dropped unknowingly from the pocket of my niece. 

It was only when we arrived at the house when she noticed that her cellphone is missing. Frantically, she searched her pockets and her bags but shed didn't find it in either of them. 

So she suspected she might have dropped in the taxi we boarded.

Right away we contacted the missing cellphone and it was ringing but no reply. We also sent text messages but no reply. 

It's only this day June 2, 2019 about a week ago that the taxi driver found the cellphone when a passenger adjusted the seat and the cell phone dropped. 

Then the taxi driver was reminded of the calls and text that we had sent him. So he contacted me this afternoon and I met him at Slaughter Compound, Baguio City. 

He handed me the cell phone of which I am very grateful. 

With permission I asked for his name and took pictures of the taxi. To the taxi driver, thank you very much for your honesty. May God bless you and protect you through out your life. 
Photo Courtesy || Marlon Bernard Baso

Photo courtesy || Marlon Bernard Baso


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Thursday, February 14, 2019

Important guidelines for tourists visiting beautiful town of SAGADA

Photo Courtesy || Bftamp Guides
Cordillera - The beautiful town of Sagada and its humble people are welcoming tourists around the world to come and visit their place and experience the unique culture of their people.

But before you pack your things and go to their place, the local government wanted to remind you of these simple guidelines that you should keep in mind when in Sagada.

Sagada's town mayor Mr. James Pooten issued these guidelines for tourists via the Philippine News Agency website.

All visitors are required to register at the tourism office where they pay certain fees like the environmental fee and guide fee among other fees.

"Travel agencies, groups, and individuals must register for the tours at the Tourist Information Office (TIO)," Pooten said.

He reminded the tourists to bring their official receipt with them which will serve as their entrance pass to the tourism sites.

Visitors who would like to visit the Echo Valley, Lumiang and Sumaguing Cave don't need to bring their car with them because the place is near and only require short walks. They can leave their cars at the designated parking area.

"Fetching of tourist is only allowed from Sumaguing cave back to the town center. There will be no designated parking space near the cave," Pooten added.

He said all tourist vehicles, whether private or government-owned, are required to park their vehicles during their stay in Sagada at their hotel parking or in pay parking areas.

"Only local transport shall be allowed to ferry tourist to identified sites. Registered municipal tourist shuttle will have one general line up stationed at the Tourist Information Center," he said, noting that this would assure that all tourists are accounted for and are safely back at their lodgings at night.

For accommodations, Pooten said that only LGU and Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited inns, hotels or home stays under the Sagada Inns and Hotels Association (SIHA) will be allowed to operate as accommodations.

These establishments must follow the standard pricing, he added.

Regarding waste management, Pooten said tourist are encouraged to bring their own refillable water tumblers and discourage from using plastic bottles.

Pooten also remind tourist to respect Sagada's culture especially when visiting sacred sites and participating in the local rituals.

"Please respect the culture. Keep a distance from rituals or any sacred sites. Do not touch or disturb coffins or burial sites. Do not attempt to join or film any rituals without direct permission from the presiding elders," he said.

"Do not disturb mass in the church or shoot videos/photos in or around the church during mass," Pooten added.

Sagada has so many places to spend time during the holidays and it's one of the most visited places in the Cordillera especially this coming months where a lot of festivals will be celebrated.
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Friday, December 14, 2018

Foreign vlogger experiences the best Cordilleran hospitality from a family in Sagada

Photo Courtesy || Fearless and Far
Cordillera - When it comes to pure and warm treatment of visitors either a local or foreigner, Filipino hospitality is something we like to take pride in. From the moment you step off the plane Filipinos will give you a warm welcome and a beautiful smile. Which already gives you a feeling of being at home even though you are in another country. This trait has become a culture in the Philippines and has been praised all around the world.

Although the Philippines is composed of many islands with people of different tribes and tongues and cultures, Filipino hospitality can be experienced anywhere and everywhere. Even from the highest peak of the mountain and in the deepest sea. They all know how to treat their guest properly. They will offer to show you around, invite you to their house and eat with them.

And by saying this I want to give out a perfect example, in the municipality of Sagada a tribe that is also well known for their unique hospitality, the Igorots. They are warm-hearted people and very hospitable. 

Actually, there was one foreign vlogger who  wanted to try the authentic delicacy around the town of Sagada and one of the locals he met became his guide. Since he likes to try the local food, he was invited by his guide to attend his 4 year-old son's birthday party.

The family welcomed him. He was shown various kinds of authentic Igorot food such as dinardaraan, etag and pinikpikan. The vlogger enjoyed the warm welcome and the hospitality of the entire family. For him there was no time of dull moment because everyone in the family wanted to talk to him. 

He said that “Looking at this plate I could tell I was far, far from home and it made me happy.”
As he spent a lot of his time waiting and hanging out around the place, and showing their culture he experienced a real travel experience.

“I’m happy. I’m here I’m happy I got the invitation and I’m happy I’m having a real travel experience.” With a simple invitation shows true meaning of hospitality. Making someone feel that once they are part of our culture and community regardless whoever it is.

“I love the most about the travel hanging out with someone who is from here with their family with their friends drinking local drinks maybe a little too much but having a good time eating food and feeling like I’m a part of the community.”

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Friday, October 26, 2018

"Panag-aapoy" - Sagada's unique way of remembering their departed love ones.

Photo Screengrab || Being Igorot FB
Cordillera - A fire  brightly burns at the cemetery of Sagada every November. Those who see this for the first time might think that people of Sagada are burning the whole mountain where they buried their  loved ones  by the looks of a large blaze of fire when  viewed from afar.  


The people of Sagada have been practicing their unique way of remembering their departed love ones called "Panag-aapoy" which means "to light a fire" in English. 

Every eve on  the first day of November , many iSagadas (people of Sagada)  gather at the cemetery to light pieces of a pine wood's flammable part called "saleng". If others light up candles, the iSagadas light up saleng to create a bonfire near the grave of their loved ones. 

READ ALSO: 76-year old Lola from Sagada speaks fluent English despite having no formal education

This lighting up of saleng must be done before sundown and the entire cemetery is covered with a yellowish glowing fire from the saleng. Thus, one might think that the whole mountain is burning. 

Many iSagadas consider this event a very serious moment for every family member to  commemorate the passing of their loved ones.  They don't consider this event as a festival to merry but they view this as a solemn moment for them to respect their dead. 

Tourists visiting the place on this day must know that this occasion should not be viewed as a festival. That's why you won't find people dancing and playing the gongs.

READ ALSO: Honest taxi driver from Sagada returns lost mobile phone to owner


The Dap-ay and the Episcopal Church  hosting the event said that promoting "Panag-aapoy as a tourist attraction without consulting them and the local government is not acceptable. 

It should be noted that "Panag-aapoy" is meant for the people of Sagada to honor their departed loved ones and not for tourist to take photographs and selfies for themselves. 
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Igorot actor Jeyrick Sigmaton won Best Actor in International Film Festival Manhattan 2021

Photo Courtesy || Jeyrick Sigmaton Cordillera - Igorot actor Jeyrick "Carrotman" Sigmaton won the Best Actor for the Int...